In an effort to encourage building owners and managers in Houston, Texas, to improve sustainability activities, the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) and the City of Houston have formed a partnership to promote competition.

The Houston Green Office Challenge, previously initiated by the city, joined with the IREM Sustainable Property Challenge first launched in 2013, to boost resource conservation, performance and indoor environments of commercial real estate.

The joint competition, also driven by the Green Square Foot online platform, will prompt participants to complete various activities drawn from several categories, from education and outreach to water conservation and energy.

Accomplishing such activities earns points, and points push participants up a leader board. Top performers will be rewarded with prizes and public recognition.

Additionally, the City of Houston and IREM plan to facilitate educational events and provide information on how property managers and tenants can work together to create greener buildings.