Seoul, Korea – December 26, 2023

Zigbang, a South Korean proptech firm, said it reduced carbon emissions by 327 metric tons in 2023 through fully remote work, digital brokerage services, and renewable energy initiatives—figures disclosed in its inaugural ESG report released Tuesday.

The emissions savings are equivalent to the annual carbon absorption of over 40,000 mature pine trees. Since July 2021, Zigbang has operated as a fully remote organization through its virtual office platform soma, which eliminated commuting-related emissions. A comparison between 2020 and 2022 emissions data showed an 8.5-ton reduction, even after accounting for increased residential energy use due to staff growth.

The company’s Brokerage Live service, which enables real estate agents to show properties virtually, further contributed to a 291-ton reduction in carbon emissions by minimizing agent travel. An additional 27 tons were offset by purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to convert office power usage to clean energy. Zigbang formalized this transition by joining Korea’s K-RE100 program and partnering with renewable energy provider Root Energy.

The report also outlines the company’s social initiatives, including emergency housing support, tenant rights services, and a training program for young real estate agents.

“This first ESG report reflects our effort to evaluate and structure Zigbang’s experience and technology through the lens of sustainability,” said CEO Ahn Sung-woo. “We intend to build on this foundation to lead ESG innovation within the proptech sector.”