CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.
CBL Center, Suite 500
2030 Hamilton Place Blvd.
Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421
Policy adopted 1/4/2022
Introduction
CBL embraces programs and initiatives that strengthen our environmental stewardship and further the sustainability of the communities where we conduct our business. We are continually seeking ways to lessen our impact on natural resources through initiatives such as increased recycling efforts, energy management, and environmentally friendly design.
While we have a great opportunity to improve our efforts to reduce our impact on the environment, CBL’s recommendations included herein are intended to encourage partnership – between Landlord and Tenant – that is imperative in creating sustainable retail. Our intent is to improve indoor environmental air quality and reduce the consumption of natural resources while creating a shopping experience and workspace that is better for the customer and the shopping center employees.
What is Sustainability?
According to the EPA, sustainability is based on the principle that “everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations.” The U.S Energy Information Administration study indicates that in 2020, commercial and residential buildings consumed 29 percent of all energy consumed in the United States; compared to 26 percent used for transportation. As designers, builders, operators, and tenants of shopping centers, our decisions can significantly impact the environment.
Why is it Beneficial?
In addition to preserving resources for future generations, sustainability practices have a number of proven benefits:
- Increased efficiency of heating and cooling systems
- Reduced operating and utility costs
- Enhanced occupant comfort and health
- Reduced environmental impact through material and resource conservation
CBL’s Sustainability Initiatives
CBL’s commitment to sustainability has been evident over the years with comprehensive programs designed to reduce consumption, improve efficiencies, and encourage ongoing improvement. Over the years we have:
- Implemented and continue to implement energy-efficient lighting projects across our portfolio, resulting in an annual reduction in kWh usage enough to power thousands of homes.
- In new developments and redevelopments, we have reduced demand for potable water use by installing high-efficiency irrigation systems, native and drought-tolerant landscaping, and dual flush water closets and low flow plumbing fixtures where possible.
- We have a portfolio-wide recycled paper and cardboard recycling program.
- We utilize low-VOC emitting paint and carpet in CBL’s new developments and redevelopments.
- We’ve installed high-efficiency hand dryers in all our public restrooms which eliminated the need for paper hand towels in the majority of our shopping centers.
- We have formed an ESG Team that is responsible for overseeing our ESG efforts. This team includes members of executive management across various disciplines. The team meets regularly throughout the year and reports to the Company’s Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee at least annually.
- The latest information on CBL’s efforts is available in the ESG section of CBL’s website at https://www.cblproperties.com/esg-commitment/sustainability.
Sustainability Recommendations
CBL has put together a list of design and construction green building recommendations that will help CBL reach its goal of developing and operating centers that minimize our impact on the environment and promote good environmental stewardship.
The following recommendations are solely for the use of those tenants that will be performing their own site work (i.e., outparcel, anchors, etc.):
Sustainable Site Work
- During construction, implement an Erosion and Sedimentation Control (ESC) Plan
- Bicycle storage for customers and employees
- Preferred parking for carpools, low emitting & fuel-efficient vehicles
- Parking capacity to meet, but not exceed local zoning
- Limit or reduce impervious cover
- Native and drought-resistant landscaping
- High-efficiency irrigation systems
- Maximize “green space” in concert with development and/or redevelopment plans
- Pervious paving
- Minimize site lighting and light pollution
The following recommendations are applicable to all tenants:
Sustainable Design and Operations
- Install LED or energy-efficient fluorescent lights
- Use of timers or motion sensors for lights and storefront signage is an easy way to reduce energy output and costs
- Unplugging appliances when not in use
- Power down POS system at night
- Install low flow toilets, urinals, faucets, etc.
- Installing pipe insulation to help lower the energy needed to heat/cool water
- Optimal maximum temperatures for your water heater during operating hours are around 120-125 degrees Fahrenheit. Timers can be installed to ensure that the water heater is not in use during off-hours.
- Install high-efficiency HVAC equipment and perform regular maintenance to ensure optimal efficiency and output
- Use of programmable thermostats to help control heating/cooling costs
- Use zero CFC refrigerants that minimize ozone depletion
- Use building materials that are locally sourced and contain recycled content
- Use rapidly renewable materials
- Limit the use of HVAC equipment during construction or use and replace the proper filtration
- Conduct a post-construction flush out and or air quality testing
- Implement a Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan
- Use low – VOC adhesives and sealants
- Use low–emitting paints and coatings
- Install carpet that meets the CRI Green Label Plus standard
- Use urea-formaldehyde free composite wood and agrifiber products
- Install high-efficiency glazing/windows
- Implement a post-occupancy recycling program
- Install carbon dioxide sensors
- Isolate and vent areas of hazardous chemical use
- Use green cleaning products