There is an upward trend of practicing sustainability in HOAs. Sustainability has many benefits, both in the practical and financial sense and the ecological sense. As people look toward the future, concerns about climate change and long-term environmental impact continue to mount. Homeowners associations can do their part by adopting sustainable ways.
The Importance of Promoting Sustainability in HOAs
Homeowners associations are widespread in the United States. Some of these HOAs, particularly the older ones, have not adjusted towards sustainability. Old fixtures and practices continue to be the norm, profoundly impacting the environment. A lot of these communities are also resistant to change.
Sustainability is not just a short-term trend. Many neighborhoods are shifting towards sustainable practices to slow climate change and conserve resources. Beyond that, the practice also has financial merits.
Here are the benefits of having an eco-friendly HOA.
- Environmental Impact. Homeowners associations can reduce their carbon footprint and protect the planet.
- Cost Savings. Many sustainable practices help lower costs, including energy efficiency and water conservation.
- Health and Safety. With sustainable living, residents can feel healthier and enjoy their community more.
- Sense of Community. When residents come together as a community to practice sustainability, there is a shared sense of spirit.
- Property Values. Eco-friendly communities tend to be more desirable nowadays, significantly affecting property values.
HOA Sustainability Practices to Adopt
Many homeowners associations want to take a step toward sustainability but don’t know where to begin. Here are the many ways to practice sustainability in HOAs.
1. Practice Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency helps conserve resources and saves utility costs for the HOA. An association can use several strategies to conserve energy.
First, use energy-efficient lighting such as LED. LED bulbs are better in several ways, including lasting longer, offering better lighting, and being cheaper than conventional bulbs. Associations can lead by example by switching to LED lighting in common areas.
It is also essential to improve insulation in common areas and buildings. This will help reduce energy consumption by ensuring outdoor temperatures don’t influence indoor temperatures.
Another method is to install solar panels. Solar panels are a source of clean energy. Homeowners associations can save money on utilities and improve the environment by installing solar panels in common areas and buildings.
Finally, it is a good idea to invest in smart technology. Homeowners associations can use smart technology and inverter appliances to save energy. Smart technology can optimize energy consumption in common areas by automatically adjusting to environmental factors and other settings.
2. Conserve Water
Water conservation is paramount to sustainability in HOAs. Associations should replace old plumbing fixtures in common areas with low-flow toilets and faucets, which residents can then follow in their own homes.
Another way to conserve water is to install drought-tolerant landscaping. An HOA can hire a landscaping contractor specializing in this design and approach.
It is also wise to invest in smart irrigation systems. These systems adjust automatically according to weather conditions and can be programmed to follow schedules.
Finally, it is essential to conduct regular inspections to identify water leaks. Leaks in common areas waste water and can quickly add up to a large water bill. When leaks are spotted, it is equally important to address them immediately.
3. Recycle and Reduce Waste
Associations can improve sustainability by setting up an easy-to-use recycling program. This should include clear instructions and accessible recycling bins for different types of waste. Encouraging residents to compost food scraps and yard debris is also good to help reduce landfill waste.
Boards can also start a community cleanup initiative. This can help promote sustainability and a sense of community. Finally, partnering with local recycling centers and environmental groups can provide educational resources and support waste reduction efforts.
4. Invest in Eco-Friendly Landscaping
To promote environmental sustainability, the green HOA should select native plants. These plants require less water and maintenance, making them an eco-friendly choice. The HOA can also collect rainwater for irrigation.
The HOA can also reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers. By exploring organic alternatives, they can minimize the impact of harmful chemicals on the environment.
Preserving green spaces within the community is another important step. The HOA can enhance these areas to support biodiversity and improve air quality.
Finally, the HOA should also educate residents about sustainable gardening practices. Promoting techniques like composting and xeriscaping can encourage responsible yard maintenance throughout the community.
5. Use Sustainable Construction Materials
Associations can make community buildings and amenities more sustainable by choosing eco-friendly building materials and using green construction practices. This reduces their environmental impact while creating healthier and longer-lasting structures.
HOAs can select materials with recycled content or a lower environmental footprint when upgrading clubhouses, sidewalks, or outdoor furniture. These include sustainably sourced wood, recycled steel, and eco-friendly composites.
Practicing sustainability in HOAs also means hiring responsible contractors. Boards should go for contractors and vendors with the same beliefs and values.
6. Encourage EV Integration
Electric vehicles are becoming more popular as the years go by. Homeowners associations can keep up with this trend and promote sustainability by installing EV charging stations throughout their communities.
With the installation of EV chargers, HOAs can encourage homeowners to invest in electric vehicles. They can also be ready for the potential onslaught of new EV owners within their neighborhoods. Beyond that, EV chargers help attract new residents and enhance property values.
7. Go Digital
Going digital is a big step in HOA sustainability. HOA websites and homeowner portals allow associations to go paperless.
This shift can also help associations modernize their operations. Using technology and connectivity, HOAs can limit paper waste, save money on costs, and make everything more convenient.
8. Get Homeowners Involved
Homeowner involvement is integral to long-term sustainability. An HOA can invest in sustainable practices, but it can make a more profound impact if it gets its residents to participate as well.
Education is the first step. The HOA can organize workshops and seminars on sustainability topics, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
An HOA can also create a sustainability committee to allow residents to get their foot in the door. This committee can plan sustainablility initiatives such as community gardens, cleanup days, and recycling programs.
Moreover, it is important to recognize and reward residents who actively practice sustainability. This will help motivate others to do the same.
A More Sustainable HOA Community
Sustainability in HOAs is more than just a trend. It is an ongoing commitment to a better future. Homeowners associations should make responsible choices today to positively impact tomorrow. Leading the way will inspire residents and, before long, other communities as well.
Hillcrest Property Management offers HOA management services to Chicago communities. Call us today at 630-627-3303 or contact us online to request a proposal!
