Located in Sapporo, Japan, Alpha Square Kita 15 jo is one of 24 rental housing properties in CLAS’ Japan portfolio. Rental housing, or built-to-rent properties, are residential properties which comprise purposebuilt apartment units with fully-fitted kitchens, water heaters, air-conditioners, broadband internet access, security access phones and built-in wardrobes. Such properties typically cater to long-staying guests with an average length of stay of two years. In November 2023, Alpha Square Kita 15 jo became the first property in Japan, and CLAS’ first rental housing property, to achieve the EDGE certification. The property has a variety of green features to improve energy efficiency, including roof and exterior wall insulation, a reduced window-to-wall ratio, and the usage of high-performance glass which provide natural light transmission while limiting heat gain and thermal energy transfer. These are complemented with the implementation of an energy-efficient space heating system. The property also ensures water sustainability with the installation of water-efficient fixtures (showerheads, faucets) in the bathrooms and kitchens. These are complemented with a rainwater harvesting system which captures and diverts rainwater from the rooftop for later use, and smart water meters that monitor and facilitate improvement in water management. FIRST PROPERTY IN JAPAN AND CLAS’ FIRST RENTAL HOUSING PROPERTY TO RECEIVE EDGE CERTIFICATION – ALPHA SQUARE KITA 15 JO Preserving Biodiversity CLAS leverages CLI’s commitment to preserve the environmental integrity and biodiversity of its sites as well as the wider area wherever possible. This is achieved by addressing any distinctive ecological features of the site, taking into consideration nature reserves on or near the site, protecting plant and animal species on the site and removing invasive plant species on or near the site. External experts are engaged to provide advice where appropriate. CLAS’ development projects are all located in urban and built-up areas. There are no sites located within protected areas and hence no material biodiversity risks were identified. Instead, CLAS encourages greenery within its projects as it enhances the wellness of its end users and the vitality of the surrounding communities over the long term. Working with Like-minded Operators Ascott, CLAS’ Sponsor and the operator of about half of its properties, received the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) Recognised Standard status in 2022. As a member of GSTC, Ascott was one of the first hospitality groups to be conferred the status for its adoption of the GSTC Industry Criteria. This was an affirmation of Ascott’s commitment to the gold standard for sustainable tourism. 2 Translating to a reduction in Scope 2 emissions of about 158 tonnes CO2e. Overall, the green features at the property are estimated to reduce both energy and water consumption by 26% (339,285 kWh/year2 and 3,287 m3/year respectively), compared with the base case in the EDGE assessment tool. The property’s estimated annual utility cost avoidance is about S$32,000. SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2023 28
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