The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) has put Great-West Lifeco on its on 2016 Climate A List and the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) survey has awarded GWL Realty Advisors a "Green Star" ranking.

CDP recognises companies that disclose their carbon emissions and work to mitigate climate change. The companies which earned an A grade from CDP this year ranked in the top 10% of all the submissions.

As for GRESB, it is a benchmark used by institutional investors to help understand real estate companies' environmental, social, and governance activities and the sustainability performance of their portfolios. This year, the survey received 759 submissions from management companies and funds from around the world, representing assets worth $2.8 trillion (USD). GWL Realty Advisors improved its standing this year, moving from the top 15% last year to the top 10% of global participants in 2016.

"We're pleased to be recognized as a Canadian leader for our commitment to environmental management," says Paul Mahon, President and CEO, Great-West Lifeco. "We understand the need to be constantly improving to reduce the environmental impact of our operations to help build a more sustainable future for generations to come."