Environmental Stewardship
There is a critical interdependence between human health and the health of our planet, driving our deep commitment to incorporating environmentally friendly strategies, technologies, and best practices in our real estate portfolio.
Our internally managed Environmental Management System provides us with the structure to evaluate, monitor, and improve our sustainability performance. We strive to reduce our environmental impact through various methods including tracking utility consumption, implementing efficiency measures and incorporating renewable energy strategies like green power purchasing.
Environmental Management
In 2022, Welltower set a new, near-term target to reduce our Scope 1 and 2 (market-based) GHG emissions 28% by 2030 over a 2019 baseline. This target has been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative.
25% Reduction in GHG Emissions Intensity by 2030
In 2024, Welltower set a goal to reduce Scope 1 and 2 (market-based) GHG emissions intensity by 25% over a 2023 baseline.
12% Reduction in Energy Usage Intensity by 2030
Welltower regularly engages with its seniors housing operators and medical office building managers to ensure our properties are regularly assessing their energy usage and implementing best practices to further reduce energy consumption. In 2024, Welltower set a goal to reduce our energy usage intensity within our control boundary by 12% over a 2023 baseline. In 2023, Welltower used over 65,000,000 kilowatt-hours of green power.
12% Reduction in Water Usage Intensity by 2030
Welltower has developed and implemented our "Performance Playbook: A Guide for Senior Housing Efficiency and Excellence" to help guide our operators in performing water leak detection tests and transitioning to low-flow water fixtures. The Playbook, among many other initiatives, highlights Welltower’s action-oriented commitment to reducing water usage. In 2024, Welltower set a goal to reduce our water usage intensity within our control boundary by 12% over a 2023 baseline.
Building Certifications
As of 2022, Welltower is proud to hold the following certifications:
8 LEED Certified Properties
8 BREEAM Property Certifications
19 IREM Certified Sustainable Property Certifications
58 ENERGY STAR® Certified Properties
45 Properties with Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Grades B or Above
120 WELL Health-Safety certified properties
1 WELL Certified Property
Green Bond Framework
Welltower executed its first $500 million green bond in December 2019 and its second $550 million green bond in March 2022. Proceeds from green bonds will be used to fund renewable energy, water conservation, energy efficiency and green building projects. Welltower is proud to be the first U.S. healthcare REIT to complete a green bond offering and to continue expanding on our leadership in sustainability.