Sustainable living in strata communities is certainly possible, but it takes some careful planning. Some solutions are affordable and easy, while others require a significant investment. However, all of them have the potential to save money for your strata scheme and promote environmentally friendly living at the same time. Here are a few technologies to consider.
Solar energy systems
There aren’t many better options than solar when it comes to reducing ongoing energy costs. Using solar energy, you can power the building for free while the sun is shining. Powering every apartment in a large building means a significant investment in solar panels. However, with new meters and energy systems that we’ll discuss soon, you can evenly distribute free solar energy throughout the building as needed.
If the initial investment is too daunting, you might like to start small. There are options for powering common areas with solar energy rather than every individual apartment. So, if you want to dip your toes into the world of solar, this can be a good way to start.
Smart meters and energy management systems
Smart meters and energy management systems provide real-time data on energy consumption. They also support dynamic pricing models, and importantly, they can send power where it is needed. Essentially, these systems give residents more control over their usage and reduce energy wastage.
Smart energy systems can also be linked with a solar system for further savings. More advanced systems even include IoT (Internet of Things) technology, giving building managers even greater control and better insights into energy consumption.
Green waste management solutions
There are plenty of options if you want ways to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills. You might consider setting up a communal composting system or a worm farm. These initiatives work particularly well if you already have a community garden. Modern composting systems are compact, don’t smell, and overall are a great option for apartment life. Whether you create a larger communal system or simply encourage smaller composting units, it’s a step in the green direction!
Water-saving technologies
Just like everything else, water costs are always on the rise. Plus, excessive water use is a big environmental concern. To reduce your building’s water consumption and environmental footprint, consider some of the great water-saving technology that’s around today.
Technologies like greywater recycling and smart irrigation systems can significantly reduce water consumption in strata buildings. Greywater systems reuse water from showers, sinks, and washing machines for toilet flushing or irrigation. You can also consider smart irrigation systems that use greywater and work on a timer to ensure plants are watered only when needed.
Do you want to explore sustainability upgrades for strata?
If you’re ready to plan for the future, More Than Strata is here to help. Our expert strata management service can help you plan for future sustainability upgrades. We can help with everything from gathering quotes to organising installation. Importantly, we take care of your capital works fund to ensure your upgrades are affordable. Contact us today to find out how we can take the hassle away from strata management.
