There has been a lot of talk in recent years surrounding protecting and preserving the environment. This is a task that requires cooperation from everyone, not just a single person or entity. HOAs can do their part to protect the earth and engage in more eco-friendly practices in order to reduce their footprint. And this doesn’t necessarily have to mean drastic changes – there are simple ways to be eco-friendlier too.
- Go Paperless
Does your HOA still distribute a lot of flyers and print out forms? Consider moving to digital and cloud-based platforms as much as possible. Encourage homeowners to provide a current email address and use the HOA website to find information and submit requests. Clean up clutter by keeping electronic versions of documents which can be much easier to manage and don’t require reams of paper.
- Conserve Water
Set sprinklers to run in the early morning or later in the evening giving water a chance to be absorbed into the ground instead of evaporated away by the heat of the day. Incorporate indigenous or drought-resistant plants into landscaping because they require less water and are accustomed to surviving in the local environment.
- Use Motion Sensors
Instead of setting lights to come on automatically at a certain time, use light or motion detectors so they only come on (and stay on) as needed. This can help to reduce electricity usage and extend the life of light bulbs. Regulating thermostats and investing in energy-efficiently appliances are other helpful steps to take in conserving energy.
- Implement Recycling
If your community doesn’t already participate in a recycling program, now is a great time to start. But it isn’t enough to just have recycling services available – homeowners need to actually use them. Take the time to educate homeowners on what can and cannot be recycled and ways to reduce waste.
- Service Equipment
Have regular maintenance inspections for HVAC systems, sprinkler systems, pool equipment, and other assets. Make sure equipment is working properly and not draining energy due to malfunctions, incorrect settings, or other issues. When it is time to replace assets, look to invest in eco-friendly, energy-efficient options that will generate savings in the long run.
These are strategies that cannot only be implemented throughout common areas, but also by members in their own homes. If everyone works together, the HOA as a whole can reduce its impact on the environment and do its part to protect the earth. For support in adopting paperless practices or implementing other changes, turn to Kuester.
