These tools are unlocking smarter, faster and more effective decision making, while also offering powerful levers to improve environmental outcomes.

The industry has long grappled with how to move from data collection to meaningful action. Now, with the increasing maturity of technologies such as AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics, we’re beginning to see the true potential of data in driving sustainable outcomes. Data can directly inform strategic decisions and create measurable change.

Uses and considerations

There are many different types of AI and their application in real estate is vast, from machine learning models that optimise energy use, to generative AI that accelerates early stage design and planning. One of the fastest growing uses of data is as core input into machine learning algorithms, which underpin many AI systems. These systems, when applied thoughtfully, have the power to reduce emissions, enhance operational efficiency and support the transition to net zero.

However, there’s an important circularity to acknowledge: while AI can be a powerful tool for cutting emissions, it’s also a growing source of carbon emissions. Training AI requires vast computational power and, therefore, energy, much of which is still generated from carbon intensive sources. As we embrace these technologies, we must also be conscious of their environmental footprint.

Beyond emissions, there are other challenges to address. Data privacy, ownership, cybersecurity and the ethical use of AI all present real concerns. The potential impact on workforces due to automation also warrants consideration. But these shouldn’t be reasons to avoid innovation. Instead, they’re signals that clear implementation plans, governance structures and ethical frameworks are essential as we scale up use of technology in real estate.

Practical application

Used wisely, data and AI offer real opportunities to tackle some of the sector’s long standing challenges including the tendency to work in silos. With the right systems in place, AI can integrate data across disciplines, bringing together sustainability, operations, investment and design teams to work towards shared decarbonisation goals. However, to truly unlock technology’s potential, we must first address challenges around data quality, standardisation, and access, particularly the need to move from static to real time, dynamic data.

Encouragingly, there are already examples of how this is working in practice. One such innovation is the Savills Carbon Pioneer tool, developed to support early stage sustainability assessments. By leveraging pre-simulated options, it enables rapid, reliable insights into the net zero potential of an asset, along with costed, actionable decarbonisation pathways.

Carbon Pioneer incorporates the full suite of analyses to protect against stranding, loss of value, and obsolescence. It ensures alignment with the due diligence requirements through CRREM (Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor) pathways, EPC feasibility, and energy end-use analysis. What once took weeks of manual analysis can now be completed in days, driving both speed and impact.

As investor pressure and regulatory demands grow, the business case for investing in sustainability AI tools strengthens. These technologies are no longer just about compliance, they’re about creating real value for investors and long term resilience for portfolios.

The future 

Technology, data and AI will be central to how the real estate sector responds to the climate challenge, but real impact requires more than just innovation. It demands a clear understanding of the risks, a commitment to responsible implementation, and a willingness to collaborate across the value chain. 

If we get this right, the potential for technology to drive a more sustainable built environment is huge.

Further information

Contact Eve Farrugia

Real Estate Podcast: Savills Earth Series 3: Leveraging data to achieve more sustainable outcomes