Socially Responsible Property Investment in Cities – Between Economic Reasoning and Social Obligations

This article focuses on socially responsible property investment (SRPI), which is an investment estimated not only to bring financial gain but also social and environmental benefits. The theoretical part of the paper draws on existing literature on responsible investment. The empirical part discussed in this article is based on original research conducted by the author. Starting with a global and regional overview, the query was narrowed down to a national level (Poland) with a case study of the capital - Warsaw. The overarching research problem was described as follows: How are SRPI principles manifested and implemented by investors in the commercial real estate market? Additionally, investigation was supported by numerous questions regarding the interest in SRPI and an understanding of its principles and benefits among investors. Research goals were pursued based on primary and secondary data sources regarding existing and planned SRPI projects within the commercial real estate industry. Results indicate that there is a disparity between declared support for SRPI and market practice. At the conceptual level, there is an understanding of responsible investment principles and will to conduct such projects. However, commercial property practice proves a different reality with primary focus on green buildings, while the social factor is missing.