ESG Unplugged: Practical Sustainability in Multifamily Real Estate

With Thomas Stanchak,
Managing Director of Sustainability, Stoneweg US, LLC
In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen welcome Thomas Stanchak, Managing Director of Sustainability at Stoneweg US, to explore innovative approaches to sustainability in real estate. Thomas shares his unique journey from asset management to ESG leadership, emphasizing a data-driven, pragmatic approach to decarbonization. Key discussions include the challenges of building performance standards, the potential of biodiversity in real estate, and the use of AI for creative communication. Thomas advocates for forward-looking ESG reporting, highlights the economic potential of renewable energy, and demonstrates how technology and creative thinking can make sustainability more engaging and actionable. The episode offers insights into transforming sustainability from a compliance exercise to a strategic business opportunity. You won’t want to miss it!

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • Making a Bet: Building Performance Standards (1:55)
  • Impact of BPS/BIPs on Real Estate Investment (5:02)
  • Wager on BPS/BIPs Enforcement (8:06)
  • Guest Introduction: Thomas Stanchart (9:02)
  • Thomas’s Entry into Stoneweg US & ESG (12:23)
  • Incremental Approach to Sustainability Investments (16:06)
  • Engaging Leadership in ESG (17:45)
  • Reporting vs. Action in ESG (22:10)
  • Challenges of Forward-Looking ESG Reporting (25:46)
  • Energy Economics & Real Estate (30:29)
  • Transition to Low-Carbon Economy (33:59)
  • Practical Steps for Biodiversity (36:28)
  • Technology & Engagement in Biodiversity (39:04)
  • AI Tools for Storytelling & Engagement (43:12)
  • Optimism for the Future (46:42)
  • Connecting with Thomas and Parting Thoughts (49:23)

 

The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.com

About the Hosts

Joel Cesare
Joel Cesare is a visionary leader in sustainable real estate, currently serving as Growth Lead at Cambio, an AI building retrofit analytics platform. He previously led Google's $50B global net zero real estate program and oversaw the building of Santa Monica's City Hall East, one of the world's greenest buildings. Recognized with awards like ENR Top 25 Newsmaker, Living Future Hero, Building Design & Construction 40 under 40, his mission is to dream, inspire and deliver.
Owen Barrett
Owen Barrett is the world's foremost expert in solar on multifamily properties. Owen is currently the CEO of Shine and has over 12 years of experience in the clean technology sector covering fuel cells, HVAC, LED lighting, and of course, solar. Owen is the former Global Energy Manager of a Fortune 500 company and a successful founder with two exits.

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