Supporting the
environmental
transition
Better Places Certification
At Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), we have a long-standing tradition of collaborating with local stakeholders and the cities that host our centers. Together, we are committed to a path of sustainability that encompasses both environmental stewardship and conscious consumption. To evaluate and track our progress, we created the Better Places Certification: a specialized tool designed to help our shopping centers minimize their environmental footprint and drive meaningful social change.
The certification is based on 96 criteria, accounting for a broad range of indicators—from water usage to local job creation. While all our centers are rated on a scale from A to E, the score itself is only the starting point. Every center follows a long-term sustainability roadmap, aiming to improve its rating through continuous advancements in environmental efficiency and by fostering a positive impact on the daily lives of local communities.
Continuously improving sustainability at our destinations
WasteOur destinations implement waste-sorting and recycling programmes and work to continuously reduce the volume of waste they produce. Visitors and tenants are encouraged to sort and recycle their own waste, and we strive to send no waste to the landfill by the end of 2025, and reach 70% of recycling rate by 2030.
Sustainable RetailWe support the sustainable evolution of our retailers’ offer via the Sustainable Retail Index. This index provides insights into the progress of performance and the commitments of retailers in their sustainable transition efforts. Through initiatives such as the Westfield Good Festival, we promote more sustainable experiences and support circular consumption. Learn more about the SRI!
Existing CertificationsMany of our destinations already have existing certifications that rate the performance of their buildings and activities, such as BREEAM-in-Use, Energy Performance Certificates and health & safety scores.
WaterThe amount of water each shopping centre uses is carefully monitored to find ways for continuous improvement. All centres are given targets to reduce their water usage and tasked to find alternative sources, such as collecting rainwater for nourishing plants or flushing toilets.
BiodiversityWe take action to protect and support biodiversity in our assets by setting up a biodiversity action plan, using eco-labelled cleaning, maintenance and phytosanitary-free gardening products, as well as increasing biodiversity-friendly areas on site.
Health, Safety & ComfortAs part of the Better Places Certification, the air quality of each of our centres is tested and analysed. Air quality in indoor areas is monitored to ensure it complies with all health and safety standards. 
MobilityThe transportation used by our visitors is a major contributor to our greenhouse gas emissions, so we are implementing solutions to encourage the use of more sustainable mobility. These include the expansion of bike parking, increased access to public transportation, electric vehicle charging points and more.
Energy & ClimateThe energy consumption of each shopping centre is assessed. Centres are tasked with continuously reducing their energy intensity and assessing the likely impacts of climate change on their assets and activities.
Communities & Local SupportOur shopping centres are local hubs, bolstering economic and social vitality, and delivering jobs and skills, social inclusion and health programmes to serve local communities. Each destination is scored on the work it does to support its local community and strives to create a positive impact, from creating jobs to promoting charitable causes, fostering social inclusion and providing access to those living with disabilities.URW Group commits for the environmental transition
We are committed to improve the carbon footprint and environmental efficiency of our assets and operations. We contribute to global carbon neutrality, with a clear priority towards reduction of our greenhouse gas emissions, and we operate an efficient and resilient portfolio that minimises negative impact on resources and the environment.
Energy use50% reduction in energy intensity of shopping centres by 2030 (2).
Emissions90% greenhouse gas emission reduction on Scopes 1 & 2 by 2030. 50% greenhouse gas emission reduction on Scopes 1, 2 & 3 by 2030.
Water conservationReduce water consumption intensity by 20% per footfall by 2030 (2).RecyclingZero waste to landfill by the end of 2025. Recycle 70% of our waste by 2030.