SEAM Introduces Social Impact Certification for Commercial Real Estate

Atlanta, GA-based SEAM, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to help businesses make a positive social impact on the world through their commercial real estate footprint, has launched a social impact certification, professional accreditation and membership program.

SEAM Certification is intended to provide a roadmap for developers, property owners, and occupiers to maximize opportunities for positive social impact through the built environment. The program focuses on a series of key objectives that support the UN Sustainable Development Goal; its reporting framework can plug directly into an organization’s ESG, DEI and CSR strategies.

“SEAM addresses a critical gap in understanding and metrics surrounding the social impact of commercial real estate,” said Rainey Shane, SEAM, Inc., co-founder and social sustainability director for JLL. “With SEAM Certification, organizations can differentiate themselves and their developments by meeting rigorous international standards for positive social impact in their communities and beyond.”

“Most importantly, SEAM offers a direct path to a more just and prosperous real estate industry over time” added Alex Demestihas, co-founder of SEAM, Inc.

Seattle-based Urban Visions is the first organization to register a SEAM Certification pilot project with its development, The Jack, a 175,000-square-foot building in Seattle.

Photo: The Jack