CSRD: How sustainability guidelines can make the real estate sector more inclusive for women

The introduction of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) creates a new opportunity for real estate companies to promote not only sustainability, but also inclusivity. The CSRD, which will apply to large companies and some medium-sized organisations from 2024, sets out obligations for comprehensive reporting on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. It emphasises a workplace where diversity, including gender equality, is an integral part of business operations.

Why the CSRD promotes inclusivity

By requiring companies to be transparent about their social and environmental impacts, the CSRD provides a powerful tool to promote gender equality and inclusive practices. For real estate companies, attracting and retaining female talent becomes an important factor in their ESG strategies, contributing to a sustainable corporate culture.

How the CSRD makes the real estate sector more attractive to women

• Equality targets: companies can promote inclusiveness by setting concrete, measurable diversity targets within their ESG policies.

• Transparency and accountability: commitments to openness on inclusive practices provide clarity to female talent on career opportunities and corporate culture.

• Sustainable and people-focused policies: In addition to environmental accountability, the CSRD also promotes people-focused policies, such as work-life balance and career advancement opportunities, through which real estate companies create a work environment that is attractive to women.

With the CSRD, real estate companies can usher in a new era where inclusivity and sustainability go hand in hand, and where female professionals feel heard, valued and supported. This will not only help achieve sustainable goals, but also build a diverse and future-proof sector.

The CSDDD: extra steps for sustainability and accountability

In addition to reporting, the European Union requires companies to actively address negative impacts on people and the environment through the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). This legislation requires companies to identify, correct and prevent risks and undesirable practices. Like the CSRD, the CSDDD is being introduced in stages. Large companies will be the first to comply, and from 2026 the first organisations will have to comply with the new rules.

Read more about the CCSRD here.