The Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) is promoting a big-picture perspective on asset-level actions with the launch of a modelling tool tied to its certified sustainable property (CSP) program. Property and asset managers can use the interactive digital platform to estimate how CSP certifications could translate into points in the GRESB assessment and benchmark of ESG performance in commercial real estate portfolios.

Building certifications are one of the elements contributing to the performance component of the GRESB score. Real estate entities participating in the assessment can earn a maximum of 8.5 points for operational certification, based on the percentage of floor space within the portfolio that is certified under a recognized program for building operations such as CSP, BOMA BEST, LEED for operations and maintenance (O+M) or WELL.

IREM characterizes the modelling tool as a strategic planning aid to guide decision-making and better connect sustainability initiatives to investor expectations. Beyond CSP, it provides the functionality to compare the costs and implementation criteria of various operational certifications — an approach in keeping with IREM’s underpinning agenda to provide industry guidance and sustainability leadership.

“This tool gives owners, managers and sustainability teams a clearer way to see how operational certification can support larger portfolio goals,” says Mindy Gronbeck, IREM president for 2026. “It takes a complex scoring concept and turns it into a practical planning conversation.”