Property leader calls on industry to embrace future challenges

Speaking on 4 March at the Scottish Property Federation (SPF) conference in Edinburgh, SPF Chair Robin Blacklock challenged the property industry to deliver financial, social and environmental sustainability for Scotland.

Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Kate Forbes MSP, also addressed the conference, echoing calls for a break in ‘business as usual’ to find innovative solutions to service Scotland’s communities.

The conference looked to other sectors as examples of how to successfully incorporate sustainable business practices with addresses from ScottishPower CEO Keith Anderson and CEO Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc John Reid.

SPF Chair Robin Blacklock said:

“The property industry in Scotland has a great opportunity to shape the future direction of the country by embedding sustainability in its business practices.

“If we are to tackle the challenge of inclusive economic growth as we move towards a carbon neutral economy, we must do things differently.

“We can learn from other industries that have taken those bold steps towards carbon reduction, and from those who’ve set social inclusion at the heart of their businesses.

“By imbedding social and environmental responsibility into our day-to-day business considerations we have a fantastic opportunity to influence our future for the better.

“We must strive to inform political and community leaders about how long-term, sustainable investment is key to meeting their objectives.

“With a collaborative approach, we can start to solve this critical challenge.”