Simple Ways to Embrace Sustainability in your Strata Community
Date published: 10 January 2024, updated 6 November 2024
As urbanisation continues to reshape our cities, the need for sustainable living practices has become more critical than ever. As we move into 2024, CHU has committed to a sustainability charter and is focused on sustainable development within the built environment.
Living sustainably is a shared responsibility that starts with individual action. If you're a resident in a strata apartment, you have the power to make a positive impact on the environment right where you live. Embracing sustainable practices doesn't have to be complicated. Here are five easy ways to incorporate eco-friendly habits into your daily life within a strata apartment setting.
1. Energy-Efficiency – lights, cameras, action!!
You and your neighbours can seek out energy efficiencies across your whole building. Firstly, swapping out traditional incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LED lights within your apartment and in the common areas. LEDs use significantly less energy and have a longer lifespan, helping you save on electricity bills and reduce carbon emissions. Don't forget to turn off lights when not needed and unplug chargers and appliances to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
You may be eligible for solar rebates; it is worth looking into what the options are in your state and what is possible within your apartment complex. If solar is not an option in your apartment complex, make sure you shop around and find a provider who provides cleaner, greener energy options.
2. Minimise Water Usage
Conserving water is essential, especially in strata apartments where water use can accumulate quickly. Opt for water saving/ low-flow shower heads and faucets. If you are an indoor plant lover, a good trick is to put a bucket into the shower and collect the excess water to use on the plants.
It is important to address leaky taps and shower heads quickly, we also recommend getting your flexi hoses checked and replaced if need be – burst flexi hoses is one of the leading causes of claims in apartments and can cause a world of pain for you and your neighbours.
Adjusting the dishwasher and washing machine to eco-friendly settings also go a long way in reducing water wastage, if you replace your appliances make sure you look for the energy and water saving appliances. When replacing appliances, ensure that you dispose of the old ones responsibly through proper recycling channels.
3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Implement the three Rs – reduce, reuse, and recycle – in your daily routine. Minimise single-use plastics by opting for reusable containers and bags. Recycle paper, cardboard, glass, and plastic according to your local recycling guidelines.
Upcycle items whenever possible; repurpose old furniture or decor to give them new life. What is old is new again!! Check out online marketplaces, freecycling groups and street bounty – all of these options help to minimise landfill and gives unwanted items a new life!!
Engage with your strata community to establish proper recycling and waste disposal practices. Check in with your local council as to recycling options and the best way to dispose of your waste including organics and composting. The aim of this is to minimise what goes to landfill.
4. Sustainable Shopping Habits
Shop local is a great way to support your local community and reduce carbon emissions. Local markets are a great place to shop, mingle and enjoy some locally made and produced items. Choose products with minimal packaging or those made from recyclable materials. Consider buying in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
When buying clothes, avoid the mass production options, many of which may not be following modern slavery laws. Do you research before purchasing as to the sustainable practices of the businesses you are purchasing from.
5. Sustainable landscaping and community gardens
In strata the common areas are shared between all owners, this is a great opportunity to collaborate and transform your common areas into sustainable gardens. When adding plants and trees, opt for native plants that require less water and maintenance. This also reduces the need for chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Look into implementing rainwater tanks or recycle water sprinkler systems for gardens.
A community garden is a great way to create a sense of community, there is great satisfaction from seeing the fruits of your own labour and being able to share and enjoy the space and the produce. Depending on how much space, and how many volunteers you can muster up, chickens are also a great addition to a community garden space.
You may not be able to implement all these suggestions in every apartment complex, but even small steps have a huge impact. By adopting these and other sustainable practices into your daily routine, you and your strata committee can significantly contribute to reducing your carbon footprint, conserving resources, and creating a healthier living environment for yourself and your community.
6. Energy tracking tools
To further promote sustainable apartment living, implementing energy-tracking tools such as apps and smart systems can greatly enhance energy efficiency in a strata property. These tools provide real-time data, allowing residents to monitor their energy use and adjust their consumption behaviours. Key tools include:
- Smart meters: provide real-time insights into water/electricity/gas consumption.
- Mobile apps: Enables residents to track their usage from their phones.
- Building Management Systems (BMS): Allows real-time monitoring of property’s energy use and appliance performance.
- Energy management software: Allows strata managers to analyse energy data and identify any inefficiencies.
- Renewable energy solutions: Using solar can generate clean energy and reduce reliance on the grid.
- Energy storage systems: Store energy generated from renewables for later use – improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the property’s energy system.
By leveraging these tools, strata owners can empower residents to make more informed energy decisions and reduce their overall consumption.
7. Green certifications
Obtaining green building certifications such as NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) or Green Star offers numerous benefits for strata properties. Not only do sustainable properties reduce their carbon emissions and energy costs, but green energy solutions enhance the reputation and overall livability of strata properties, attracting eco-conscious tenants and fostering a strong sense of community. An eco-apartment building that is green-certified enhances community diversity and promotes a more engaged neighbourhood. Residents are often more motivated to participate in green initiatives like recycling programs and community gardens, fostering a collaborative community where neighbours can connect over shared interests and goals. Moreover, properties with green certifications tend to have higher occupancy rates and increased rental yields, resulting in a higher property value.
8. Waste reduction programs
Getting residents involved in recycling programs is a great way to make your strata community greener. Programs such as composting initiatives, e-waste recycling drives, community clean-ups, and setting up recycling and compost stations in common areas not only promote a culture of sustainability but also significantly reduce the environmental footprint.
9. Incentives for sustainable living
To truly embrace sustainable apartment living, it’s a great idea to take advantage of the various government initiatives available to support eco-friendly practices. From solar rebate programs (e.g. the Victorian solar panel rebate program provides up to $1,400 for solar panel installation), energy efficiency grants (funding energy-efficient upgrades), water efficiency rebates (reducing water bills for residents), and local council initiatives such as community garden funding and free workshops all help your community go green while reducing any cost-prohibiting factors in doing so.
