Highwoods Publishes 2023 Corporate Resiliency Report

Rhea-AI Summary

Highwoods Properties (NYSE: HIW) has released its 2023 Corporate Resiliency Report, detailing its ESG initiatives and achievements. The company earned a Green Star rating from GRESB for the fourth year, a 'Low ESG Risk Profile' from Sustainalytics, an A rating from MSCI, and a low-risk ISS Governance Quality Score with an ESG Prime badge. Highwoods also received 100 ENERGY STAR certifications, covering 69% of its total square footage, advanced to Gold level in the Green Lease Leader designation, and was recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Most Responsible Companies. Notably, the company met its 20% energy and GHG reduction goals three years ahead of schedule and set new, more ambitious targets. CEO Ted Klinck emphasized their commitment to economic, social, and environmental pillars, contributing to resilience in varying economic cycles.

Positive

• Highwoods earned a Green Star rating from GRESB for the fourth consecutive year.
• The company received a 'Low ESG Risk Profile' ranking from Sustainalytics.
• Highwoods achieved an A rating from MSCI, a high rating for real estate companies.
• The company obtained a low-risk ISS Governance Quality Score and an ESG Prime badge.
• 100 ENERGY STAR certifications cover 69% of Highwoods' total square footage.
• Increased from Silver to Gold level in the Green Lease Leader designation.
• Recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Most Responsible Companies.
• Achieved 20% energy and GHG reduction goals three years ahead of schedule and set new, more aggressive targets.

Negative

• None.

RALEIGH, N.C., May 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Highwoods Properties, Inc. (NYSE: HIW) has published its 2023 Corporate Resiliency Report, which highlights the Company’s Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives. A copy of the report can be accessed by clicking on the link below and on the Company’s website at www.highwoods.com/sustainability.

2023 Corporate Resiliency Report | Highwoods

In 2023, our continued efforts to advance our ESG and resiliency strategy have earned us:

• GRESB: A Green Star rating for the fourth consecutive year and continued year-over-year performance improvement;
• Sustainalytics: A “Low ESG Risk Profile” ranking;
• MSCI: An A rating, one of the highest ratings for real estate companies;
• ISS: A low-risk ISS Governance Quality Scoreand an ESG Prime badge;
• 100 ENERGY STAR certifications accounting for 69% of our total square footage;
• An increase in our Green Lease Leader designation from Silver level to Gold level;
• Recognition by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Responsible Companies; and
• Achievement of our 20% energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) goals three years ahead of schedule and continued to raise the bar by establishing new, more aggressive goals.

Ted Klinck, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “As a purpose-led organization, Highwoods continues to make positive contributions to our shareholders, stakeholders and society. We are committed to advancing our economic, social and environmental pillars, which are aligned with our strategic plan of building a resilient portfolio that thrives in all economic cycles.

By executing our straightforward strategy and adapting to the changing needs of our customers, we are navigating our way through the challenging and evolving landscape for office landlords, strengthening our balance sheet and are thrilled to see our customers thriving in our innovative, collaborative and best-in-class work environments.”

About Highwoods
Highwoods Properties, Inc., headquartered in Raleigh, is a publicly-traded (NYSE:HIW), fully-integrated office real estate investment trust (“REIT”) that owns, develops, acquires, leases and manages properties primarily in the best business districts (BBDs) of Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Nashville, Orlando, Raleigh, Richmond and Tampa. Highwoods is in the work-placemaking business. We believe that by creating environments and experiences where the best and brightest can achieve together what they cannot apart, we can deliver greater value to our customers, their teammates and, in turn, our stakeholders. For more information about Highwoods, please visit our website at www.highwoods.com.

Contact:		Brendan Maiorana
		Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
		brendan.maiorana@highwoods.com
		919-872-4924

FAQ

What achievements did Highwoods Properties (NYSE: HIW) highlight in its 2023 Corporate Resiliency Report?

Highwoods earned a Green Star rating from GRESB, a 'Low ESG Risk Profile' from Sustainalytics, an A rating from MSCI, a low-risk ISS Governance Quality Score and an ESG Prime badge, 100 ENERGY STAR certifications, increased to Gold level in the Green Lease Leader designation, and recognition by Newsweek as one of America's Most Responsible Companies.

Did Highwoods Properties achieve its energy and GHG goals in 2023?

Yes, Highwoods achieved its 20% energy and GHG reduction goals three years ahead of schedule and has set new, more ambitious targets.

How much of Highwoods Properties' total square footage is ENERGY STAR certified?

69% of Highwoods' total square footage is ENERGY STAR certified.

What ESG ratings did Highwoods Properties receive in 2023?

Highwoods received a Green Star rating from GRESB, a 'Low ESG Risk Profile' from Sustainalytics, an A rating from MSCI, and a low-risk ISS Governance Quality Score with an ESG Prime badge.

Has Highwoods Properties improved in the Green Lease Leader designation?

Yes, Highwoods improved from Silver to Gold level in the Green Lease Leader designation.

What recognition did Highwoods Properties receive from Newsweek in 2023?

Highwoods was recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Most Responsible Companies.