Since its inception in 1988, Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) has been a leader in the Philippine real estate industry, pioneering innovation and sustainability as it develops projects across the country. From pioneering eco-efficient designs to forging groundbreaking partnerships, ALI’s journey towards net-zero carbon by 2050 is marked by tangible milestones that reshape the landscape of sustainable development.
Foundations of Sustainability
ALI’s commitment to sustainability resonates across its diverse portfolio, spanning retail, hospitality, industrial estates, and mixed-use developments. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ALI integrates sustainable practices into every facet of its operations, setting a precedent for responsible real estate development in the region.
Eco-efficiency in design and construction: ALI’s sustainable ethos begins at the drawing board, with a meticulous focus on eco-efficient design and construction practices. From land acquisition to green building design, ALI prioritizes resource efficiency and waste reduction, fostering a culture of sustainability within the built environment.
Renewable energy and emissions reduction: With over 91 percent of its commercial gross leasable area powered by renewable energy, ALI leads the charge towards a greener future. Through strategic partnerships, ALI mitigates its carbon footprint while championing the adoption of clean energy solutions across its properties.
Community-building and partnerships: ALI’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on community development and partnerships. By collaborating with local stakeholders and non-profit organizations, ALI creates inclusive communities that prioritize environmental stewardship and social resilience.
Pioneering Sustainability Milestones in 2024
As we embark on a new era of sustainability, ALI charts a course towards net-zero carbon with three notable milestones as of the first quarter of the year that underscore its unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and innovation.
The largest EDGE-Zero Carbon Certified Office portfolio in the country: In a landmark achievement, eight office buildings within ALI’s portfolio received the prestigious EDGE-Zero Carbon Certification in January of this year, positioning ALI as a trailblazer in sustainable real estate development. This certifies eight buildings comprising 354,000 square meters, and making Ayala Land and AREIT’s offices the largest EDGE Zero Carbon certified portfolio in the Philippines. With a focus on energy efficiency and material reduction, these certified buildings epitomize ALI’s commitment to carbon neutrality and environmental excellence.
Circular economy collaboration: In February if this year, ALI, SteelAsia Manufacturing and Makati Development Corporation (MDC) signed a memorandum of understanding for a groundbreaking collaboration advancing circular economy and decarbonization methods in the construction industry. The agreement solidifies the practice of SteelAsia supplying MDC, the construction arm of ALI, with rebars made from recycled content sourced from scrap generated by ALI projects. This initiative exemplifies a tangible application of circular economy principles, emphasizing waste reduction and cost-efficiency. The approach aims to reduce the carbon footprints of the three companies whose diverse core businesses form a perfect synergy in recycling and reusing rebars. By sourcing recycled materials and prioritizing waste reduction, this collaboration sets a new standard for sustainable construction practices in the Philippines.
Greener hotels and resorts initiative: Leading the charge in sustainable tourism, Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corp (AHRC) aims to achieve EDGE-Zero Carbon certification for its hotel portfolio by 2026. In March 2024, AHRC signed an agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) signifying its commitment to achieve EDGE Zero Carbon certification for 2,826 rooms in its hotel portfolio by 2026, a first for a hotel group in the Philippines. Through strategic partnerships and innovative design, AHRC seeks to redefine the hospitality industry’s approach to environmental sustainability, paving the way for a more resilient and eco-conscious future.
A Collective Vision for a Sustainable Future
As Earth Hour approaches, ALI reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship, with plans to participate across its managed properties nationwide through Ayala Property Management Corporation and Ayala Malls. Beyond symbolic gestures, ALI remains steadfast in its pursuit of renewable energy and energy efficiency, catalyzing transformative change within the real estate industry.
Ayala Land’s sustainability journey is not merely a series of milestones but a testament to its unwavering commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive future. As we stand on the precipice of a greener tomorrow, ALI’s vision and leadership serve as guiding lights, illuminating the path towards a net-zero carbon future for generations to come.
