Samenvatting

SummaryThe built environment accounts for 40% of the total energy consumption and over 38% of the totalcarbon dioxide emissions. Fortunately, the role of environmental sustainability has increased in thereal estate sector but unfortunately it is falling behind on implementing sustainability policies.Therefor the research question in this research is:
Which factors contribute to the realisation of sustainability policies in the strategy of institutional investors in real estate?
This study identifies the drivers and hurdles for implementing environmental sustainability policies ofinstitutional real estate investors and what the position of banks is in this process. The research isbased on comprehensive literature review scientific evidence on drivers and hurdles for corporatesustainability. This has resulted in two models ‘drivers for sustainability’ and ‘hurdles whenimplementing sustainability’. The models are divided into internal and external drivers. In additionthe position of the bank was investigated. This is to provide a more holistic perspective on thedifferent corporate sustainability drivers and hurdles. An Advantage of that is, that by this way thechange from the current unsustainable status quo to a more sustainable-oriented state can beimproved. Based on the literature overview Empirical data was collected from experts and (head)sustainability managers. 
The results of the position of the banks indicate that average knowledge of banks towardssustainability is shockingly low and that lending is one of the slowest sections of the real estateindustry is that is coming to the table. It is recommended to emphasise leadership and includepeople in the sustainability process through empowerment. To banks it is recommended to make amateriality analyses, become a respected partner, try to find the business case and involve clientssustainability manager in the negotiations. This research offers a holistic perspective on how (realestate) companies can be more successful in implementing sustainability policies. Next to that, theposition of banks regarding sustainability is assessed.