Elevating ESG Strategies and Asset Value: The Impact of WELL at Scale

Breathe. Thrive. Transform. Buildings today must do more than simply exist. They are central to the sustainability of our communities and are called upon to align with Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks. In a recent update, the WELL Building Standard version 2 (WELL v2 or WELL at Scale) stands out, providing tools to enhance spaces and compel a fundamental reevaluation of building functionality—ecologically, economically, and socially.

WELL extends beyond traditional sustainability metrics to prioritize human health and wellness. Think everything from enhanced air quality to mental health—elements that are increasingly recognized as critical to productivity and satisfaction. WELL utilizes the insights of a global community, integrating these practices into a holistic ESG strategy that resonates with current values and regulatory expectations.

Adapting to Industry Needs

WELL at scale enables a comprehensive strategy for organizations to apply WELL across multiple properties. This is often a more cost-effective, streamlined, and impactful way to apply more than a hundred well-being strategies of the WELL Building Standard at five or more buildings. 

Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:

 The advantages of WELL at scale vs. a single-asset approach:

• Efficient Reviews: WELL at scale simplifies the verification process by replacing individual assessments with a consolidated review for multiple buildings.
• Consistent Quality Standards: WELL at scale offers a comprehensive view of your portfolio’s performance and encourages the implementation of best practices at each property. 
• Customizable Scalability: WELL at scale offers greater flexibility when implementing WELL, accommodating both immediate needs and long-term goals for your properties. 

The ESG Advantage: Aligning with Organizational Goals

Adopting WELL at scale can significantly enhance your organization’s ESG strategy by offering:

1. Elevated ESG Performance and Reporting Rigor: WELL at scale utilizes credible third-party metrics to improve social sustainability practices across your portfolio. Every element—from indoor air quality to thoughtful lighting design—demonstrates your commitment to best-in-class standards for your properties.
2. Enhanced GRESB Scores: WELL at scale participants points on the GRESB Real Estate Assessment by aligning individual feature achievements with the GRESB indicators. With an unlimited number of achievements, participants also garner points for WELL Certifications (1 pt.) and/or WELL Ratings (0.6 points). The comprehensive approach is meant to reinforce investor confidence with high-impact results.
3. Increased Stakeholder Satisfaction: In a market where health and wellness are increasingly critical in investment and occupancy decisions, WELL at scale positions your properties advantageously, increasing retention rates and boosting asset value.

The adoption of WELL at scale is becoming standard practice among forward-thinking real estate companies. By integrating WELL, organizations are enhancing asset value and improving occupant satisfaction while contributing meaningfully to broader environmental and social goals.

Interested in more ESG resources?
The Strategic Role of ESG
Sitting Above, Beside, and With Change
The ESG ROI Connection
Investing for Health & ESG

Jennifer Gray

Jenny is an ESG Consultant at Conservice. She specializes in building certifications such as LEED, WELL, and Fitwel. With a background in urban planning, she loves traveling and exploring new cities.