Three Texas cities lead YardiMatrix’s list of U.S. metro areas with the most environmental risk.
Houston, Austin, and Dallas all received low scores in the firm’s recent ESG report, in the categories of “natural disasters” and “government response.” The analysis included the February 2021 winter storms that claimed 150 lives statewide, and yielded power, food, and water shortages, affecting more than 4.5 million residents. Property damages exceeded $20 billion because of the freakish winter weather.
After the three Texas cities, Tampa and Los Angeles were next on the list of the riskiest U.S. metros. Four cities had the least environmental risk: Boston, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, and Portland. The least risky cities were in states that are taking environmental risk seriously.
Concerns about financial firms’ ability to assess environmental risk has spawned a new industry of consultants that analyze environmental data examine the impact on markets and individual buildings. This field will acquire better data and metrics as it matures, the report says.
Related Stories
Resiliency | Jun 1, 2016
Federal agencies boost standards for more resilient construction
HUD, FEMA, GSA, Army Corps of Engineers make policy changes.
Green | May 31, 2016
Miami Beach requires developers to meet green standards or pay a fee
Applies to structures larger than 7,000 sf.
Codes and Standards | May 27, 2016
Better enforcement needed for successful implementation of energy efficiency policies
Commercial buildings the focus of recent code initiatives.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2016
LEED Dynamic is worth the effort, says commercial real estate executive
San Diego office tower is California’s first office building to receive LEED Dynamic plaque in recertification.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2016
Ontario planning to spend $7 billion on wide-ranging climate change plan
Includes financial incentives to retrofit buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2016
Facility managers say Internet of Things, analytics will impact maintenance soon
More reliable data needed for optimal results from the technology.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2016
Industry leaders call for wider use of bamboo as a building material
Benefits include seismic resiliency and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2016
Asphalt roofing group publishes updated shingle installation guide
Technical manual provides best practices for roofing professionals.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2016
EPA proposes new stormwater discharge regulations for construction sites
Would apply to sites of one or more acres.
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.
