Analyzing the influence of the sustainability shift in European building codes on the alignment of identity, practice, and knowledge in commercial real estate firms

Sustainability has become a key concern across multiple sectors, including commercial real estate. Due to environmental challenges, numerous new European building regulations emphasize sustainability, pushing businesses to adapt. This research examines the effect of these sustainability-driven changes in European building codes on commercial real estate companies by utilizing the identity-practice-knowledge framework. Existing studies highlight external pressures and catalysts for change, while insights from seven interviews with industry experts reveal internal challenges, such as the need for additional expertise, and opportunities, such as enhancing sustainable practices. This paper explores how the shift in European building regulations impacts the alignment of identity, practice, and knowledge within commercial real estate firms and identifies the priorities these companies must address. The findings aim to assist these firms in preparing for the sustainability transition and in designing effective change processes for a seamless transformation.