Oct 8, 2024
During our conference “Paving the way to the transformation of cities” at Realty 2024, one of the key questions raised is the role of architecture and real estate in the well-being of city dwellers. Here is a snippet of how our experts think about this topic.
In this newsletter, you will be informed about the latest trends and news in Real Estate industry, our member space updates, and upcoming events. Sit comfy, and let’s go through:
Sustainability and wellbeing in urban development
What you need to know about European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS)
Recruiting board: COO Vacancy
Remaining events in 2024 you shouldn’t miss
Featured news: JLL Acquires to Improve Client Experience through Leasing Tech
Designing Cities: Can We Achieve Both Happiness and Sustainability?
During our conference “Paving the way to the transformation of cities” at Realty 2024, one of the key questions raised is the role of architecture and real estate in the well-being of city dwellers.
Here is a snippet of how our experts think about this topic.

César Frías Enciso, CEO at Morph, argued that well-designed cities, regardless of scale, can foster happiness by providing residents with access to quality public transportation, cultural amenities, a sense of safety, and a vibrant street life.
Shifting the focus from "happiness" to "well-being," Delphine Desgurse, Innovation Director at IKO Real Estate, outlined her firm's commitment to incorporating elements that enhance residents' well-being into their urban development projects. This includes prioritizing access to essential services like pharmacies, medical centers, and local shops, as well as integrating green spaces and providing opportunities for residents to engage in leisure and sports activities.
Theresa Fink, Business Manager at AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, emphasized the importance of citizen engagement in the development of smart cities. She argued that while smart offices are relatively straightforward to implement because companies are less concerned about data privacy, extending similar technologies to the public sphere requires careful consideration of citizens' concerns about data privacy and their trust in how their data will be used.

ESRS - The indispensable part of Transformation
To us, this discussion in the panel is interesting. Transformation is not just about sophisticated technologies and AI, but also sustainable livelihood and people’s well-being. This aligns with the broader theme of sustainability reporting.
The first reports under the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) are due next year. The ESRS represent a significant shift in how companies are expected to report on their sustainability performance.
Here are key points companies need to know:
First Reports Due in 2025: Large companies operating in the EU must submit their first sustainability reports in 2025.
Focus on Enforcement and Consistency: ESMA, the EU's financial markets regulator, has issued guidelines to ensure consistent enforcement of sustainability reporting.
Establish Robust Data Systems: Companies are strongly encouraged to establish robust systems for ESG data collection, analysis, and internal controls.
Review Existing Systems: Even companies with prior experience in sustainability reporting should reassess whether their current systems meet the CSRD requirements.
Address Value Chain Information: Though a three-year transition period exists for gathering value chain data, companies should proactively conduct gap analyses in this area.
The Social Dimension of Sustainability
The social aspect of sustainability is especially important for real estate companies. The ESRS requires companies to consider their impact on community well-being, including:
Accessibility for All Residents: Ensuring urban spaces are inclusive and accessible.
Community Building and Social Cohesion: Creating environments that foster social interactions and community bonds.
Access to Essential Services: Ensuring residents have convenient access to services like healthcare, education, and retail.
City transformation isn’t just about the physical space—it's also about the people who live there.

We are accelerating our international expansion! The upcoming months mark our first events in Czech, Iberia, and beyond. If you happen to be in the country, or if you know a partner that might be interested in these events, feel free to send them the link!
The first event in Czech for you to learn about the local market, get inspired, and establish new connections.
17/10/2024
Fragment Gallery, Rohanské nábř., 180 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia

Iberia Event: Cutting edge innovations in construction and real estate
The first event in Iberia for you to learn about the local market, get inspired, and establish new connections.
22/10/2024
Fintech House Lisboa, Av. Duque de Loulé 12, 1050-093 Lisboa, Portugal

The format of the event includes the content part with the keynote presentations added by valuable networking with drinks where you can create long-term business connections.
19/11/2024
Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (Agence Bascharage) - 111-115 Av. de Luxembourg, 4940 Bascharage Käerjeng, Luxembourg

Topic: Innovation 2024
Reflect on the past year, report on the future trends, and get ready for upcoming milestones.
19/12/2024, 6.30pm
Proximus Lounge: Rue Stroobants 51, 1140 Evere, Belgium

Members' Spotlight
FixForm has raised €1.5 million from a select group of Belgian investors
Amazing Antwerp footage from Scanbie
Heau got featured by the international innovation platform Springwise
Industry Job Board
Looking for a COO for a promising startup in Luxembourg
We are looking for a strong, visionary leader to complete us as our Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Co-Founder. If you thrive on structure, efficiency, and have the passion to shape the future, this could be your calling.
What We Need:
Someone reliable as a Swiss watch
Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to strengthen the diverse perspectives in the team
A Master of Organisation and Operations
4+ years of experience being a heart of a functioning team or organization
Fluent in English (perfect communication skills are essential)
Background in Real Estate/Construction is a plus
Knowledge of Law is also advantageous
We are passionate about reshaping our industry, and we need a reliable partner who shares this vision. If you’re ready to take on a key role in our journey, let’s connect.
Apply to: COO.metaneering@mailbox.org
Must-Read News
UK Homebuyers Asked to Weigh In on Digital Property Data in Nationwide Survey
JLL Acquires to Improve Client Experience through Leasing Tech