GRESB Infrastructure Net Zero Working Group

Call for applications – open until 26 January 2023

Context

Net Zero has been identified as the number one priority ESG topic that needs to be addressed and scored in the GRESB Infrastructure Standards. Although additional information on Net Zero was integrated into the assessment for the 2023 Standards, it was recognized that in order to move towards the ultimate aim of measuring Net-Zero performance, more work is required to better specify the scope and definition of Net Zero to be used in the GRESB Standards. This specification should cover both how to define the ultimate end goal of reaching Net Zero as well as how to demonstrate a credible journey towards Net Zero.

As a result, the GRESB Foundation agreed on the need to form a Working Group of experts across the GRESB membership to provide them with an independent review of various perspectives relating to Net Zero in order to facilitate convergence towards a definition of Net Zero Infrastructure and to evolve the GRESB Standards for this priority topic.

Purpose

A key initial step to work towards defining Net Zero for Infrastructure for use in the GRESB Standards is to carry out a top-down review of current Net Zero frameworks and methodologies to evaluate their principles and characteristics.

The review will result in a better understanding of commonalities and divergences between approaches and inform what components of Net Zero should be reflected in the GRESB Standards.

Scope of Research

Identify key industry frameworks and conduct a review of the existing methods used to carry out Net Zero assessments for Infrastructure, particularly general frameworks that can be applied to a range of infrastructure sectors. In particular review key publications/frameworks such as (but not limited to):

• The Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC) Consultation on Proposed
• Components for Infrastructure – this serves as a useful starting point and proposes some clear components of Net Zero for infrastructure
• The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Net Zero Standard (SBTi guidance for Financial
• Institutions may be relevant, as well as other SBTi frameworks related to infrastructure)
• Transition Pathway Initiative (TPI) Management Quality and Carbon Performance Methodology
• Net Zero Asset Owners Alliance (NZAOA) Target Setting Protocol

The Working Group will focus on (1) identifying the key components of Net Zero frameworks and methodologies under review, (2) noting how each framework or methodology handles a given component, and (3) mapping which components are common across multiple or all frameworks.

Examples of these components are, but not limited to, the following:

• Current emissions levels (across Scopes 1, 2 and 3)
• Target setting (e.g., approach to setting short-, medium- and long-term targets and end goals)
• Inclusion of/approach to Scope 3 (i.e., materiality, comply or explain, transparency, mandatory categories, etc.).
• Measurement of performance via a credible pathway (for current performance and targets)
• Development and implementation of credible decarbonization strategy or transition plan
• Expectations for disclosure of all components noted
• Governance/management responsibility

Output

• A summary table of how the various components are addressed, or not, across the various frameworks, noting components which may be specific to certain sectors.
• A detailed review of components, presenting at least:
  • A description of each component’s importance and purpose in relation to Net Zero.
  • An outline of the differences in approach to a common component across frameworks or methodologies.
  • The steps taken to carry out and deliver each component, including sub-tasks and specific actions.
  • The resources required, including data, knowledge, and time, to complete each component.
  • Commentary on the benefits and challenges of the approach taken.
  • Commentary on any understanding of current use of the component, including segmentation (by organizational type, sector, level (fund or asset), etc.
• While not mandatory, the Working Group is also welcome to share their views/recommendations (if they have formed one) on which approach and definitions of the various Net-Zero components analyzed would be the most appropriate for the GRESB Infrastructure Standards.

Timeline

• Application Portal open until January 26, 2023
• Applicants informed of the decision w/c February 13, 2023
• Start: first meeting on February 22, 2023
• Duration: 10-12 weeks
• Output and Final Report to be delivered to the Real Estate Standards Committee by May 5, 2023 (to be presented/reviewed at the mid-May committee meeting)

Expectations of WG Members 

• Members of Working Groups are expected to not only provide input in an advisory capacity, but to also carry out the necessary work to develop the research and outputs specified in the detailed scope, and within the planned timeline.
• Members of Working Groups must be able to dedicate at least on average 2.5-3 hours per week to the WG research and meetings.
• This work may be done individually, in collaboration with other group members, or in collaboration with external advisors or experts
• Work can take place in formal meetings of the Working Group but also between times in any way in which members find suitable to achieve the deliverables and outputs
• The Working Group Chair will have the responsibility to ensure the WG conduct the requested research and produce the report stipulated in the WG output/deliverables.
• GRESB Staff, acting as WG Secretary, will assist the Chair to monitor the progress made by the WG, as well as provide guidance and administrative support.

Link to Net Zero Working Group Application Form.

If you have any questions or would like to recommend an individual or firm that you know is well suited for this opportunity, please let us know below.