NEO targets low-carbon office portfolio amid rising ESG demands

OFFICE DEVELOPER NEO Office PH is seeking to further reduce indirect emissions and waste in its properties as tenant demand for environmentally friendly workspaces grows.

- By Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

"For 2026, we're doubling down on working with our tenants to create a more sustainable community," NEO Co-Managing Director and Chief Sustainability Officer Gie L. Garcia said in an interview with BusinessWorld last week.

Next year, the company will focus on eliminating its Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions related to operations such as tenant and supply chain activities, delivery trucks, business travel, and employee commuting.

"The focus of the company right now is on how to reduce those emissions," Ms. Garcia said. "It's very challenging... but at the end of the day, this is also a component for you to be carbon neutral and carbon free."

She also cited plans to enhance green lease provisions and recycling facilities.

"We're planning on diverting our waste to recycling plants and converting it into something different. At the same time, it makes a big difference in cutting down our carbon footprint," she said.

Ms. Garcia, who has roughly 26 years of experience in construction and property development, has led projects that helped NEO obtain certifications from local and international green building and sustainability assessors.

"I love the idea of using buildings not just as spaces, but as a way to promote sustainability and create a more livable environment for the people," she said. "It really shows that when your personal values and your professional mission align, you can make meaningful, lasting change."