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RICS and Immobilien Zeitung Launch a Global Real Estate Research Initiative at MIPIM 2026

In a momentous announcement on March 30, 2026, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and Immobilien Zeitung (IZ) unveiled an impactful collaboration with the Sustainable Real Estate Forum (SREF). This groundbreaking partnership aims to initiate a global research initiative that will enhance the accessibility of evidence-based insights and proven strategies across the real estate sector. The reveal took place at an exclusive reception held at Hilton Cannes during the MIPIM 2026 event, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable real estate practices.

Highlighting Research Accessibility

SREF, founded by Peter Panayi, aims to unlock valuable research and make it available to the entire real estate ecosystem. By utilizing proven client case studies and promoting them on global platforms, SREF is set to assist various stakeholders in discovering genuine solutions validated within the market environment. Panayi emphasized that the collaboration with RICS and IZ is crucial to bridging the gap between sustainability research and investment decision-making. He noted, “Real estate doesn’t lack ambition; it lacks accessible evidence.” The integration of verified case studies with capital allocation strategies aims to bolster measurable progress in the industry.

As the Global Knowledge Partner, RICS is set to establish standards that encourage best practices in sustainable housing, carbon measurement, and effective risk mitigation. Meanwhile, Immobilien Zeitung will assume the role of Global Media and Research Partner, advancing research dissemination through specialized channels and enhancing the IZ Research Library.

Introducing Real Estate Decision Intelligence (REDI)

During the Industry Forum at MIPIM, proptech software leader Optiml introduced its innovative Real Estate Decision Intelligence (REDI). The new product positions itself as a benchmark for decision-making in the real estate sector, focusing on facilitating data-driven investment, asset performance, and robust risk management.

Dr. Evan Petkov, Co-Founder and CEO of Optiml, noted that REDI is designed to aid asset and investment managers in achieving optimized capital allocations while defending net asset values amid transition risks. Dr. Petkov stated, “We built REDI because decision-makers were at a crossroads with real estate’s most consequential capital workflows,” aiming to transform complexity into a competitive advantage through data-driven strategies.

A Collaborative Approach to Progress

SREF's launch event also showcased numerous partnerships, gathering support from various industry leaders and organizations, including ALFI (Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry), GRESB, Arcadis, Catella, and many more. Their collaboration signifies a potent commitment toward advancing sustainability, innovation, and data transparency in the sector.

Experts at the event echoed the necessity for decision intelligence, arguing that it’s essential to translate financial requirements, sustainability transition paths, and market dynamics into auditable investment choices. This collaboration aims to provide the market with tools and insights needed to transform sustainability into measurable investment performance.

Daniel Sponheimer, ESG Sustainability Manager at Catella, emphasized the need for clarity in decarbonization efforts, asserting that “You cannot decarbonize what you do not understand.” This underlines the collaborative effort of SREF in bridging existing gaps, providing actionable strategies, and encouraging practices that prioritize measurable performance and sustainability targets.

Future Prospects

The SREF initiative is set to elevate the discourse surrounding sustainability in real estate, as organizations strive to create a more sustainable built environment while ensuring financial viability. The shared goal is clear: equip the market with the necessary information and technological infrastructure to facilitate meaningful change.

Klaas Bosma, Chief Revenue Officer at Planon Real Estate, highlighted the balance required between sustainability ambitions and financial performance. He remarked, “Ambition has never been the problem in real estate,” indicating a collective commitment to achieve sound business decisions amidst rising sustainability standards.

In conclusion, the partnership between RICS, Immobilien Zeitung, and SREF is anticipated to catalyze significant advancements in the real estate market. By leveraging sustainable practices and making research accessible, they are poised to enhance the industry’s approach to financial performance and environmental responsibility, ultimately paving the way for a more sustainable future in real estate.