Property firm Vicinity Centres has launched a new microsite to highlight its sustainability efforts with a view to providing greater transparency to the community and industry on its practices.

‘Vicinity Unwrapped’ will provide an overview of the company’s sustainability focus and activities, and track the performance with annual reporting.

The site will also showcase new environmental and social case studies about the work Vicinity is doing to drive its sustainability agenda across its over 80 shopping centres and the wider community.

“With more than 220 million people visiting our 80 plus centres across the country, we have a huge opportunity to create positive outcomes in the communities where we operate,” said Melissa Schulz, general manager sustainability, Vicinity.

“We focus on initiatives that drive the greatest value for the environment and our local communities, as well as our business.

“In the past year, we have reduced our carbon emissions intensity by 8 per cent, which is the equivalent of 29,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide and we are now the largest property portfolio in the country to have achieved a 3 Star Green Star Performance rating.

Schulz said Unwrapped would become a key platform for Vicinity to engage its customers, retailers, team members and the wider industry on its sustainability strategy, and better communicate its progress and achievements.

“We are also working closely with community partners to make a difference in areas like youth unemployment to better connect our centres with local communities.

“While we are making progress on our goals, we know there is much more work to do. We’re committed to continuing to drive our strategy and be transparent about our progress,” she said.

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