Ryan Helps Launch a New Industry Playbook for Climate-Resilient Development

The commercial real estate (CRE) landscape is facing unprecedented challenges. In 2024 alone, insured losses from natural disasters hit $137 billion, and with commercial property insurance premiums surging 88% in the last five years, the financial risks associated with climate change have never been more apparent. A reactive, compliance-based approach is no longer sufficient.

Recognizing the urgent need for a unified, proactive strategy, we joined forces with industry leaders The Resiliency Company, JLL and the Urban Land Institute to launch a first-of-its-kind resource: “From Vulnerability to Value: A Risk Mitigation Playbook to Drive Resilient Development.”

This free playbook represents a fundamental shift in mindset for the CRE industry, transforming climate resilience from a perceived cost into a core driver of asset value, investor confidence, and long-term profitability.

Drawing on the collective insights of 55 leaders across design, construction, finance and insurance, the playbook provides a clear and actionable framework for identifying, assessing and mitigating climate-related risks throughout the entire development lifecycle. It addresses both physical risks, such as flooding and wildfires, as well as transition risks driven by shifting regulations and technology.

As a national developer, designer and builder, we are dedicated to creating spaces where people can thrive. A key part of that commitment is guiding and enabling our clients to build more sustainable and resilient projects for the future. Our involvement in this coalition was driven by a need for a more transparent and collaborative approach to risk management.

"We recognized a collective need for a cross-sector resource that allows all stakeholders to work together and have more transparent discussions around navigating and proactively preparing for climate risk,” said Joe Rozza, our Chief Sustainability Officer. “This playbook, which outlines best practices and supportive tools, is the most cohesive document we have at our disposal to evaluate joint mitigation options and decide the right next steps in creating a more climate-resistant CRE industry.”

This initiative challenges the long-held belief that sustainability must come at a premium. Instead, it offers a practical approach for leveraging climate resilience to gain a competitive advantage, leading to premium valuations and increased access to capital.

The complete CRE Playbook is now available for download at: https://resiliency.com/climate-risk-management-playbook