We are lucky to live in a society of abundance. However, in the midst of the climate crisis, we have to be more mindful of the way we are using our resources.
Nowadays, being environmentally conscious means so much more than just separating your trash from your recycling. For this year’s Earth Day, Building Stack wants to encourage everyone to help the planet with a few tips for building owners to reduce their carbon footprint.
Use less energy
These are many different ways to reduce your energy consumption in your buildings. Switching to LED light bulbs is a small step in the right direction: they are easy to install and last for years. But if you want to go bigger, look for appliances with the Energy Star logo for your units, laundry room and common areas.
If your heating bill goes through the roof, you might want to have your building’s insulation checked in order to reduce heat loss. Installing smart, programmable thermostats can also keep your home to an optimal temperature while reducing the amount of energy required to heat and cool your home (not to mention all the money you’ll save). And don’t forget to mention them in your vacancy listings: lower energy costs are sure to attract potential renters.
Start a community garden
Locally grown food has many environmental benefits, from reducing transportation-related emissions to providing fresher, tastier produce. And you can’t get more local than your own home! Install a communal garden in your yard or on your roof, where your tenants can grow tasty veggies all summer.
If you don’t have outdoor space, install a hydroponic herb garden in your lobby that the whole building will enjoy year-round. With so many options available online, you are sure to find one that fits your space and your budget!
Save the bees
In an effort to preserve our tiny flying heroes, urban beehives are gaining popularity all over the country. However, in some places — especially around big cities — they have been known to pose a threat to the native wild bee population. Do some research about the best option in your area. You could also plant some bee-friendly flowers around your building, such as peonies, lavender, chives and mint.
Go paperless
Take all your business in the cloud! With the ubiquity of technology and pocket-sized devices, there is no reason anymore to waste paper by printing an e-mail or a memo.
Use a software like Building Stack to manage your leases and work orders, and encourage your tenants to pay their rent online. Not only will you save a few trees, you’ll improve your efficiency by keeping all your data in one easily accessible place.
Travel sustainably
Install bike racks in the basement to encourage tenants to use their bikes more often. Add charging stations in your parking lot for electric car users. It might motivate others to buy green for their next car.
Some cities offer corporate discounts on public transportation passes, so sign up your business; it will make it easier for your employees to take the bus, the train, or even the subway.
No matter how big or small, every step you take will contribute to helping our planet. The next time you are planning some major renovations, think about future generations and look into the LEED certification process; you might discover more ways to improve your building’s sustainability.
Building Stack offers innovative solutions that will help your company take the green turn. Book a demo to learn more!