The initiative forms part of Aberdeen’s global Responsible Property Investment strategy which includes plans to improve the sustainability, and energy efficiency across its £19.3 billion property portfolio. This programme will be launched initially in the UK but a comparable initiative will be rolled out across Europe over time.

To manage this process and act as Aberdeen’s ‘eyes and ears’ on all projects the Group launched a competitive tender process seeking ‘best-in-class’ sustainability experts resulting in the appointment of five consultants who will provide this strategic support.

They are: Envision, Greengage, Synergy, Tuffin Ferraby Taylor and Verte.

Aberdeen’s strategy aims to ensure that all aspects of sustainability are considered including energy efficiency post occupancy evaluation, health and well being of occupiers, local community engagement and investment. Aberdeen believes that more efficient and better designed buildings, providing tenants with lowered operational costs and improved working environments will enhance further the marketability of its properties, and as a result improve returns for its clients.

Estelle Hunt, head of project development management, said: “This is not about a box ticking exercise, or about chasing green certificates. The panel of sustainability experts have been specifically selected to help us achieve our long term objectives and ensure that we are future proofing the portfolio to the benefit of both our investors and our occupiers.”

Andrew Creighton, head of direct property - Europe, added: “We see this as a key initiative for our direct property business in 2016. This is about saying to the market that this is what you can expect from an Aberdeen managed property. It is also saying to the wider development community that if you want to work with us then you can expect to have to achieve sector leading sustainability requirements.”