Five ways to boost sustainability for your strata property

This year we’ve seen school students strike and protestors block roads – a sign Australians have become more environmentally aware.

There’s a reason companies are embracing sustainability initiatives and people are making the move to greener living.

While it may seem like a big task at first, there are small steps that anyone can take to improve the environmental footprint we leave.

Here are some ideas to help you make your building greener, save money and enhance community living:

1. Lighting

In Australia, lighting makes up 10 per cent of the average household electricity budget. Making the switch to LEDs (light emitting diodes) or CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) have proven beneficial for many building owners.

In some cases, LEDs have used 80 per cent less energy while also reducing the cost of power bills.

2. Renewable energy sources

Investigating in alternative renewable energy options can pay off by using less electricity, meaning you’ll have more savings in your pocket.

More people are installing photovoltaic solar panels, which use sunlight as a source of energy. Other options that can improve your home include wind powered energy production, solar hot water and heat pumps.

Before you decide to invest in solar panels you may need to consult with your owners corporation, local council and meet legal requirements.

3. Water

Many regions in Australia are still suffering from drought and recent water restrictions have been applied in Sydney.

Setting up a rainwater tank is a great way to feed gardens, toilets and the laundry, all the while reducing valuable water collected from our reservoirs. Rainwater tanks can also reduce water bills and there are incentives, such as, local council rebates.

For simpler ways to save energy there are water-saving showerheads and water pressure-limiting devices.

4. Gardening

Communal gardens have been found to connect people to nature and build community connections, but it’s important to consider what type of plants are being used. Opting for native plants will require less water for maintenance.

Meanwhile, veggie gardens can reduce pollution and greenery can create natural shade and reduce the need for indoor cooling systems.

5. Waste

There are many environmental benefits to recycling waste. Materials, such as, paper, glass, aluminium and steel can all be recycled.

More generally, recycling saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Some households have even provided compost facilities for the disposal of organic waste.

Before you begin, remember that any plans and ideas for common areas of your strata property should be proposed to the owners corporation before any further steps are made. In some instances, requests need to be lodged to the local council.