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Living more sustainably works best when it is a collaborative process embraced by the entire community. Here are some things that residents can do to improve their carbon footprint before and after moving into an apartment.
Giving renters the perception that they are getting more for their money is one way for older properties to compete. Granted, optional spending in a poor economy may seem counter-intuitive and take some salesmanship to sell to management initially, but as an investment it pays off.
Located in the D.C. Highlands Neighborhood, the Wheeler Terrace Apartments’ geothermal system has reduced energy consumption by 25%. In a ribbon cutting ceremony in late September 2010 – that could only be described as a collective, “Yes We Can!” – the project’s partners were ecstatic as they announced this lastest glory moment. After the required year of operation, the project had exceeded the criteria needed to earn the coveted U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Gold certification. Only four years ago, Wheeler Terrace was planned for demolition when its Section 8 residences decided to rescue themselves.
In late April 2010 both houses of Congress were motivated to move the Safe Chemicals Act (SCA) forward in response to constituents who want the 83,000 chemicals to which Americans are exposed tested, studied and banned when appropriate.
Vacancy rates are up and as managers struggle to lease vacant units, the competition for prospective tenants is ferocious. Here we offer suggestions for green property maintenance, repairs and general practices that will attract and retain the uber-green tenant, a rapidly expanding class.
