Fintech PR
Fitwel Announces Certified Metrics Pilot to Substantiate Value & Risk
In Collaboration with EVORA Global, New Pilot Marks Codification of Metrics Connecting Health and Well-Being to “S” in ESG for Commercial Real Estate Industry
NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Fitwel®, the healthy building certification platform operated by the Center for Active Design (CfAD) and Active Design Advisors Inc. (Adai), announced today the launch of its Certified Metrics pilot in partnership with sustainable technology and services company EVORA Global. A global first for the industry, the new tool is a giant step forward in validating data for real estate, addressing the growing need for a rigorous and standardized approach to integrate the ‘Social,” including health and well-being measures, into ESG reporting.
Voluntary ESG reporting is booming, but 46% of investors find the ‘S’ to be the most difficult ESG factor to analyze and embed into investment strategies (BNP Paribas, 2019). 69% of investors believe having an external certification or validation would give them more confidence in assessing the accuracy of a company’s reporting (PwC, 2022), and so the Certified Metrics is a direct response to industry demand.
Certified Metrics will enable real estate firms to assess an entire fund or portfolio against an evidence-based standard, generate data insights about social and material risk, verify their performance through a third-party review, and compare that performance to peers. Certified Metrics can be used across funds and portfolios with a variety of asset types, ultimately delivering data-driven insights to inform investment decisions. Fitwel’s entity-level solution builds on the latest health evidence base by, for the first time, connecting health outcomes with economic value, pointing to clear substantiation of value and risk.
Certified Metrics offers an answer to a question the global market has asked for some time: how do we quantify and validate the “Social” component of ESG for real estate investors, and how can it be applied universally? Europe has largely been at the forefront of developing solutions to this question, and now, EVORA and Fitwel will standardize a solution that can be successful globally. The key to this anticipated success is in providing an evidence-based reporting framework that will result in verified outcomes, thus making Social reporting clear and straightforward industry-wide.
The pilot is part of Fitwel’s ever-growing suite of product offerings as it expands beyond its flagship role as a healthy building certification to a comprehensive data and insights platform that drives market transformation for the industry. Earlier this year, Fitwel released its Relational Data Insights Tool which measures asset performance of Fitwel-certified projects.
“Given that ‘S’ metrics are still in their infancy in terms of ESG reporting, what matters most is where you stand in relation to the rest of the market,” according to Joanna Frank, Fitwel President & CEO. “This is the appeal of Certified Metrics – in offering a much-needed pathway for companies to maximize the value they are creating by prioritizing health.”
“For the first time, we will have a codified standard for social impact in real estate across the world,” said Sarah Coughlan, EVORA Global Associate Director. “Codification is a major milestone for ‘Social’ as it has long suffered from a lack of comparable metrics and benchmarks. This is no longer the case. Acting as industry partners, EVORA has been working with Fitwel to develop a widely applicable standard that works across all asset classes. The Social pillar is finally maturing and I’m very proud that EVORA is helping to drive this change.”
The first phase of the Certified Metrics pilot will be led by Fitwel Leadership Advisory Board (LAB) members BGO, Hudson Pacific Properties, Lendlease Americas, QuadReal Property Group, Tishman Speyer, and Vornado Realty Trust. The full pilot cohort, which will soon be announced, is expected to focus on six targeted outcomes with proven impact on health and financial value: Supporting a High-Quality Environment; Creating Climate Change Resilience & Preparedness; Engaging with Occupants and Community Stakeholders; Promoting Equity; Optimizing Asset for Walking & Active Transportation; and Enhancing Access to Natural Elements.
Fitwel Certified Metrics will deliver increased value by providing:
- A report showcasing a fund or portfolio’s certified metrics, including key stats and narratives to bolster regulation and compliance reporting as well as marketing and ESG submissions
- Rankings to provide valuable insights on how a fund performs compared to others in the industry
- A gap analysis highlighting specific areas for targeted investment and improvement over time
“EVORA’s long-standing relationship with Fitwel has moved a step closer now thanks to our collaboration on the Certified Metrics standard,” shared Philippa Gill, EVORA Global Executive Director, Strategic Accounts. “We are delighted to be part of the first independent industry framework to address social wellbeing and climate resilience factors and look forward to further insights from our pilot scheme participants who are key to ensuring the metrics can be adopted across global markets.”
About Fitwel
Fitwel is the world’s leading certification system committed to building health for all. Generated by expert analysis of 7,000+ academic research studies, Fitwel is implementing a vision for a healthier future where all buildings and communities are enhanced to strengthen health and well-being. Fitwel was originally created by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention and U.S. General Services Administration. The CDC remains the research and evaluation partner for Fitwel. The Center for Active Design (CfAD), a global not-for-profit organization, maintains the Fitwel standard and conducts objective third-party assessments that lead to certified projects. CfAD’s new business unit, Adai (pronounced “a-DAY”), is charged with expanding Fitwel to the global market, administering the program while providing best-in-class customer service and technical support. To learn more about Fitwel, please visit: www.fitwel.org.
About Evora Global
EVORA Global is a premier sustainability advisor, providing comprehensive, industry-leading climate solutions for real asset investors. EVORA works with clients to improve their sustainability and reduce their climate risk. Its clients include many of the biggest names in global real estate, including Invesco Real Estate, Hines and M&G. The company provides consultancy services and has developed its own software, SIERA, which enables its clients to make investment decisions regarding climate change and sustainability. Founded in 2011 by Chris Bennett, Ed Gabbitas and Paul Sutcliffe, the company now has over 200 staff.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fitwel-announces-certified-metrics-pilot-to-substantiate-value–risk-301925688.html
Fintech PR
Nakheel partners with six renowned architecture firms to design 10 bespoke Beach Collection villas on Palm Jebel Ali
DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nakheel, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has announced its collaboration with six locally and globally acclaimed architecture firms – WATG, SAOTA, Whitespace Architects, NAGA Architects, LOCI, and LW Design Group – to deliver a stunning 10 distinct architectural styles for the bespoke villas planned for the Beach Collection at Palm Jebel Ali.
Inspired by the island’s unique blend of oceanfront serenity, vibrant cityscape, and the colours and forms defining its landscape, the architects have crafted an exclusive collection of 10 homes that celebrates the iconic destination’s natural beauty and urban dynamism, delivering a collection of residences that seamlessly integrate indoor-outdoor living and infuse luxury into everyday living. From minimalist elegance to bold contemporary statements, the emphasis is on creating spaces that embrace natural light and take advantage of the scenic vistas to offer residents a sanctuary of tranquillity and exclusivity, aligned with Nakheel’s vision for Palm Jebel Ali.
Situated on prime beachfront locations, the five- and six-bedroom villas from the Beach Collection range from 7,300 sq ft to 8,500 sq ft, offering unparalleled privacy and exclusivity. Each villa boasts a unique and contemporary façade, meticulously designed to complement the coastal setting. Grand entryways with double-height volumes lead to expansive living spaces, where floor-to-ceiling windows showcase captivating views of the Arabian Gulf.
Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate, said: “With its breathtaking oceanfront views and ambitious vision, Palm Jebel Ali has inspired some of the world’s leading architectural minds to design bespoke masterpieces for The Beach Collection. These unique villas embody luxury, sophisticated design and a seamless connection with nature, a testament to the success of our collaboration, showcasing the individual brilliance of each architect while capturing the essence of this extraordinary destination. This collaboration brings to life our vision for exceptional homes that cater to inspired tastes and lifestyles.”
Palm Jebel Ali’s seven islands span 13.4 kilometres, feature 16 fronds and over 90 kilometres of beachfront, and it marks the beginning of a new growth corridor in the Jebel Ali area, underlining the expansion of the emirate, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Nakheel’s projects form an iconic portfolio that are pivotal to realising Dubai’s vision.
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/nakheel-partners-with-six-renowned-architecture-firms-to-design-10-bespoke-beach-collection-villas-on-palm-jebel-ali-302351788.html
SHARJAH, UAE, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — American University of Sharjah (AUS), invites outstanding international students to apply for the President’s Scholarship for Fall 2025. Open to applicants who have completed their secondary education outside the UAE, this scholarship provides talented students with the opportunity to join a dynamic academic community that fosters innovation, collaboration and leadership.
AUS is ranked among the top five universities in the UAE for its number of international students according to QS World University Rankings 2025 and third for its international student ratio in the Arab region according to QS Arab Region University Rankings 2024. With a campus that represents approximately 90 nationalities, AUS offers an inclusive and vibrant environment where diverse perspectives enrich academic and personal growth.
The scholarship covers full tuition and lab fees, on-campus housing, student medical insurance and a monthly stipend to support living expenses. Recipients also benefit from three annual round-trip tickets during their studies.
Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, underscored the significance of the scholarship, stating: “The President’s Scholarship reflects our steadfast commitment to providing talented students from around the globe with access to an education that is both transformative and empowering.”
Students at AUS benefit from remarkable opportunities to engage in innovative research studies, thanks to the establishment of six cutting-edge research centers. These include the Artificial Intelligence, Smart Infrastructure and Robotics Research Center; the Materials Research Center; the Center for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Sustainable Development; the Energy, Water and Sustainable Environment Research Center; the Center for Arab Studies and Islamic Civilizations; and the Advanced Biosciences and Bioengineering Research Center.
Located in Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, AUS combines tradition with modernity on a campus that inspires exploration and discovery. AUS students are immersed in a thriving ecosystem of cultural heritage, entrepreneurship and technological advancement. The vibrant campus life offers opportunities for personal development and engagement through over 120 student-led organizations, including cultural clubs that celebrate global traditions, academic associations that drive professional excellence and interest-based clubs that cater to diverse passions and talents.
The President’s Scholarship is open for applications until Thursday, April 17, 2025, and renewable for students who continue to meet the scholarship’s requirements. Prospective applicants can visit apply.aus.edu to learn more about the eligibility criteria and submit their applications. To know more about the scholarships and grants offered by AUS, visit www.aus.edu/scholarship.
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/aus-announces-presidents-scholarship-for-international-students-302351720.html
LONDON, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — elevendigits Ltd, a company at the forefront of financial technology and business funding solutions is thrilled to announce the launch of three business loan comparison websites tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom, the United States, and New Zealand: business-loan.uk, business-loans.com, and businessloan.nz.
This strategic expansion effort reflects elevendigits’ commitment to simplifying the financial decision-making process for businesses across many different markets. By offering user-friendly platforms designed to make life easier, these websites provide transparent, accessible and efficient loan comparisons for companies of all sizes.
Meeting the Needs of Global Entrepreneurs
These 3 new websites are tailored not only to the unique issues and regulations, but also to the opportunities within their respective markets:
- business-loan.uk: Designed specifically for the UK business landscape, it addresses the growing demand for tailored funding options, helping startups and SMEs navigate a competitive market.
- business-loans.com: Caters to the vast US business ecosystem. This platform matches entrepreneurs with a wide array of financing opportunities. This ensures they find the best fit for their growth ambitions.
- businessloan.nz: Focused on New Zealand’s entrepreneurial community. It seeks to simplify the access to funding solutions for businesses that prioritize agility and innovation.
Streamlined Access to Business Financing
The platforms provide comprehensive loan comparison tools that let business owners evaluate multiple funding options based on several categories such as interest rates, repayment terms, eligibility requirements and lender reputation. Each site features:
- Personalized Recommendations: Tailored loan matches which are based on your business profile and funding needs.
- Educational Resources: Guides, articles and tools to help business owners make informed decisions.
- Secure and Efficient Application Processes: A streamlined experience that lets you save time and reduces the complexity of securing funding.
A Vision for Empowered Business Growth
“Access to the right financial tools can be transformative for businesses,” said the CEO of Elevendigits Ltd. “By launching these platforms, we’re ensuring that entrepreneurs in the UK, USA and New Zealand can confidently navigate their financing options and grow their businesses.”
About Elevendigits Ltd
Elevendigits Ltd is a global leader in financial technology, dedicated to creating solutions that can form a connection between businesses and the financial institutions capable of funding them. With a strong eye for transparency and accessibility, Elevendigits continues to simplify the life of entrepreneurs worldwide.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/elevendigits-ltd-launches-three-different-business-loan-comparison-websites-302351681.html
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