How have eco-friendly practices in senior living communities evolved over time? While eco-friendly and green initiatives in Senior Living date back to the late 1970’s and early-1980’s, it wasn’t until the 2000’s and early 2010’s, driven by the influx of Baby Boomers moving to Life Plan Communities that such initiatives and practices became widespread across the industry.
Today, sustainable green buildings, initiatives and activities can be found on the campus of almost every Life Plan Community, driven not by administrative action, but by the residents themselves.
What are some common sustainability practices found in modern retirement communities?
Design Build Standards
• Today nearly all new construction is built with a focus on sustainability. Whether that is using environmentally friendly materials, high-efficiency products, or the actual design of the building to maximize efficiency, there is some element of sustainability in all new construction.
Energy Efficient Renovations
• Life Plan Communities have also begun renovating existing housing units and facilities with a focus on sustainability. Renovations often include higher efficiency windows, appliances and HVAC units, the installation of LED lighting and upgrading electrical and other systems with more modern energy efficient systems.
Natural Gardens, Recycling and Conservation/Reduction Programs
• Whether it’s natural gardens and native plants, fresh herb and vegetable gardens to be used in dining services, rainwater collection or campuswide recycling programs, sustainability extends to more than just energy-efficient buildings. Programs like these, often resident driven, are unique to each campus and community. They are a reflection of the interests and needs of that community.
How does Homestead Village demonstrate its commitment to eco-friendly initiatives?
Homestead Village, an exceptional Life Plan Community, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania has been proactive in finding ways to ensure sustainability and reduce our carbon footprint. Some steps that Homestead Village has taken include:
• Electric vehicles – We currently have 4 electric vehicles in our fleet, including 1 car and 3 work vans.
• Electric handheld tools – Wherever possible Homestead Village has switched to battery powered and electric tools to reduce the reliance on small gas-powered engines. The batteries are charged using mini solar panels attached to the work truck.
• All renovations of existing homes and buildings are made to maximize both efficiency and aesthetics.
• Our new Townstead Apartment building features many green and eco-friendly concepts and materials in the design.
What role do residents play in shaping sustainability efforts?
Another key aspect of sustainability on the Homestead Village campus is driven by our residents and more specifically our Environmental Action Resource (EAR) Committee. The Homestead Village EAR committee has undertaken several eco-friendly initiatives around campus. These include:
• Installation of native plant gardens and the expanded use of native plants in landscaping.
• Expanded recycling program to include more items that can be recycled weekly.
• Homestead Naturally is a committee focused on raising awareness and taking meaningful action to prolong the health of the environment.