Alex & Matteo | London Estate Agents Turning Green
When you think of carbon emissions you most likely think of automobiles. However, real estate is approximately 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Sadly, only 5% of estate agents have a policy or plan for reducing their carbon footprint. Alex & Matteo are and have been change leaders in SE1 & SE16 and are proud to be one of the first carbon-negative estate agents in London and we are always looking for new ways to protect the environment.
Carbon Emissions and London Real Estate
The recent Getting Our House in order report by JustMoveIn.com found that “more than half of estate agents surveyed (54%) believe the eco issue is becoming more important for the real estate industry, with only a third of agents (35%) believing their firm is currently sustainable enough.”
Further, over half (58%) believe that being eco-friendly would improve their profitability, and boost their reputation. However, only a quarter of those surveyed admitted that they always consider a supplier’s eco-credentials when choosing one.
For estate agents that haven’t committed, time is running out. Carbon neutrality is a legal requirement for 2050. However, the Committee on Climate Change has said that to meet this target, net emissions from all housing must be zero by 2030.
How Alex and Matteo are Reducing Carbon Emissions
Alex and Matteo have been ahead of the curve and working to reduce their footprint for over a decade. We use electric vehicles as much as possible for business travel, like property viewings to reduce air pollution. This also helps to cut down on noise pollution in Bermondsey, Canada Water and Rotherhithe’s residential areas. In addition, we do not print unless it is absolutely necessary and all of our documentation and files are in electronic format. We encourage and use paperless communication as much as possible and take advantage of natural light where possible to reduce energy consumption.
The Alex & Matteo team is deeply passionate about the environment and the health of their Bermondsey and Rotherhithe SE1, SE16 community. Their business model and vision don’t see reducing their carbon footprint as an inconvenience or a chore. Rather, they see it as an opportunity to be role models and community leaders while connecting with people who care about the same issues.
Real estate is a large contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and estate agents should be knowledgeable in all aspects of the industry, not just buying, selling, and letting. Alex and Matteo are committed to not only being at the forefront of the fight against climate change but educating clients and colleagues on all things real estate related. It is our responsibility to lead by example and we hope that other estate agents will follow suit. If we all work together we can make a real difference.
We believe that it is possible to run a successful business while also doing our bit for the planet. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly estate agent, look no further than Alex and Matteo!