Challenges in our society, translated into five megatrends for the future
Our society is changing at dazzling speed. This has an impact on how we live (today and tomorrow) and what the future of our planet looks like, which must not be underestimated. As Montea has both feet firmly planted in the logistics and spatial sectors, we have an enormous impact and therefore responsibility also. So we asked ourselves the question: what are the burning issues in our society and in which of them can we play an important role? Where is our biggest impact and how can we exert a positive influence?
The exercise identified five themes. Five megatrends that are inevitably part of Montea's future. With these themes in mind, we eventually drew up our materiality matrix and are working towards our ESG targets for 2030 and 2050.
1. Energy transition
As property developers and investors, we cannot ignore the energy transition if we want to survive. Climate change and the scarcity of fossil fuels are forcing companies to assume their social responsibility and to contribute to a sustainable future, for instance by designing and erecting sustainable buildings that use less energy and generate fewer CO2 emissions.
Developers as well as investors can reduce a building's energy costs by resorting to sustainable technologies and energy-efficient designs. This can lead to a higher sale or rental price, making it an even more attractive investment.
In a market where sustainability and energy efficiency are increasingly more important, we can stand out from the competition by focusing thereon, which can lead to in higher demand for the property and a better reputation in the market.
The energy transition moreover means that we have to prepare for scarcity of supply - such as the current congestion problem in the Netherlands - but also for increasing demand for electricity due to the use of more electric heat pumps and the provision of charging points for cars, vans and trucks. The integration and management of all renewable energy flows (solar and hydrogen, and battery storage) and of newer trends such as energy sharing also pose challenges.
Finally, the government is imposing increasingly more stringent requirements on the energy performance of buildings. It is therefore important that we comply with such regulations to avoid fines and other legal consequences.
