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Globally, cities today consume over two-thirds of the world’s energy and account for some 70 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions. The building sector, being a primary contributor to the environmental footprint of cities, must play a key role in mitigating the impact of climate change.Singapore-listed international real estate operating company City Developments Limited (CDL) is one such corporation that is focused on creating resource-efficient buildings as part of its sustainability roadmap. A green building pioneer in Asia, it has developed over 80 Green Mark buildings and spaces. It was ranked the top real estate company in the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World 2016. Climate change – one of the most critical challenges to the global development agenda – presents tremendous opportunities for businesses to innovate and deliver sustainable solutions that meet tomorrow’s needs.In Singapore, the Sustainable Singapore Blueprint and Climate Action Plan outlines the national agenda for a smart and sustainable nation. This involves delivering on Singapore’s Nationally Determined Contribution of 36% emissions reduction from 2005 levels and ambitious national targets such as greening 80% of the nation’s building stock by 2030. As a developer and landlord, CDL is in the position to build value for the future through sustainable development and facilities management, and contribute to these national targets. Applying innovative designs and productive technologies have been key to our sustainability strategy, which creates value for our business, investors, customers, and the community. For over two decades, we have strategically integrated sustainability into CDL’s business and operations – from design, construction, procurement, and maintenance to building user engagement. By investing between 2 per cent and 5 per cent of a new development’s construction costs to green building innovation, we have shaped Singapore’s built environment with numerous ground-breaking developments. In line with our triple-bottom line approach towards sustainable development, we have aligned our sustainability strategy and initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This allows us to further pave the way in sustainable development GRANT KELLEY, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, CITY DEVELOPMENTS LIMITEDBUILDING VALUE Below: CDL’s upcoming Singapore Sustainability Academy, a 4,300 square feet zero energy building located at the roof terrace of Singapore’s First Eco-mall, City Square Mall, will feature extensive solar technology and monitors to track real-time energy generation and consumption. Future plans include using it as a hub for youth engagement to nurture green champions of tomorrow.Artist’s impressionTHROUGH SUSTAINABILITY118 GREEN BUILDING