Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield: First real estate company to set freshwater science-based target
February 5, 2026 – Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) has set its first science-based target for freshwater — developed using the Science Based Targets Network methodology and validated through the Accountability Accelerator.
URW is a leading developer and owner-operator of retail and mixed-use destinations. It is the first real estate company globally to validate science-based progress using the SBTN approach.
“By becoming the first real estate company to have freshwater science-based targets validated, in partnership with WWF France, we are strengthening a rigorous, science‑based approach that supports the resilience of our assets,” said Sylvain Montcouquiol, Chief Resources & Sustainability Officer at URW.
Using SBTN’s Steps 1 and 2 technical guidance (v1.1), URW began by assessing and prioritizing its nature-related impact. With this preparation work validated by the Accountability Accelerator, URW then set a science-based target to reduce freshwater withdrawals in its direct operations in the Ter Llobregat System basin, Spain.
“Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield’s validation through the SBTN process shows how science-based targets for nature help companies move from understanding their impacts to taking credible, science-based action. By identifying its most material pressures on nature and setting its first validated freshwater target, URW is establishing a strong foundation to support long-term resilience and meaningful biodiversity outcomes over time,” said Erin Billman, CEO of the Science Based Targets Network.
URW has previously set climate targets using SBTi methodology, and Montcouquiol explained how “together, SBTi and SBTN form a comprehensive and science-aligned approach to climate and nature, positioning URW to take action across the full spectrum of environmental challenges.”
URW’s target-setting work has been supported by WWF France, which co-leads the Nature Transition Lab with the French government to mobilize credible corporate action on nature through science-based targets for nature.
Find URW’s full disclosure information, along with other leading companies’ validated action on SBTN’s Target Tracker.
Is your organization ready to step up for nature alongside leading companies like URW? Find out how to get involved here.
