5 minute read
Paving the Way for a Greener Future
By Justin Sacoolas, CCAM
California has long been a state that values sustainability and environmental stewardship. With its semi-arid climate and persistent water scarcity issues, community associations and condominiums must take proactive measures to conserve water and adopt eco-friendly practices such as recycling and green waste disposal. This article explores how communities in California can contribute to a more sustainable future by conserving water and promoting recycling and green waste management.
Some of you managing green communities may have already incorporated these practices. However, many people, and therefore communities, resist changing or modifying their habits. This is evident with the implementation of food waste law changes in the state. However, education and community building can be effective ways to facilitate meaningful change. When boards and residents understand the benefits of proposed changes, they are less likely to be resistant.
Water Conservation
Drought-Resistant Landscaping
Drought-resistant landscaping is one of the most effective ways for community associations and condominiums to conserve water. By using native, drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems, these communities can significantly reduce their water consumption. California’s Mediterranean climate provides an ideal backdrop for such landscaping practices.
Smart Irrigation Systems
Adopting smart irrigation systems equipped with weather sensors and automated controls can ensure that landscapes receive only the water they need. These systems can adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather data, reducing water waste during rainy periods and preventing overwatering during dry spells. Some systems also measure and monitor the soil’s moisture level and adjust irrigation run times in each zone accordingly.
Water Audits and Leak Detection
Regular water audits and leak detection are essential for identifying and addressing water inefficiencies. Community associations and condominiums can hire professionals to conduct water audits and promptly repair any leaks to minimize water waste. Communities with frequent underground or in-wall leak issues can install flow monitors, which alert designated persons when water flow increases or decreases beyond established thresholds. This allows leaks that would typically remain hidden for some time to be discovered immediately, minimizing the damage caused.
Recycling Initiatives
Recycling Programs
Community associations and condominiums can set up comprehensive recycling programs to encourage residents to recycle effectively. Providing convenient recycling bins and educating residents about what can and cannot be recycled can significantly reduce waste sent to landfills. Recycling incentives can further motivate homeowners to alter their disposal habits. This can be as simple as reporting any cost savings due to recycling efforts at the annual meeting or in the budget package.
E-Waste Collection
Incorporating electronic waste (e-waste) collection into recycling initiatives is essential. Many California communities have adopted e-waste collection events, ensuring that old electronic devices are correctly recycled rather than ending up in landfills, where they can release harmful substances. Consider consulting with a CACM industry partner specializing in waste management to explore how they can help you facilitate this in your communities, as they often offer assistance and programs your local hauler may not.
Composting
Promoting composting within communities can significantly reduce the volume of organic waste sent to landfills. Community gardens or shared composting bins can be established, helping residents convert kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for landscaping. Want to avoid managing community gardens or shared compost bins? Consider adopting rules allowing residents to have individual compost bins provided they comply with specific space, appearance, and gas and odor control standards.
Green Waste Diversion
Green waste, such as yard trimmings and tree branches, is often a significant part of the waste stream in California. Community associations and condominiums can divert green waste from landfills by chipping or mulching it as ground cover or landscaping material. However, consult your landscaper first because some green waste mulch could do more harm than good. Alternatively, partner with local composting facilities that accept green waste. If you do so, amend your contract with the landscape maintenance company to include transporting green waste to the compost facility.
Green Waste Disposal
Various means of green waste disposal are reviewed below.
BULK COLLECTION EVENTS
To facilitate green waste disposal, community associations and condominiums can organize bulk collection events where residents can dispose of green waste items like branches and tree trimmings. These events help ensure responsible disposal (instead of throwing trimmings into the common area over the rear yard fence) while maintaining clean and attractive landscapes.
YARD WASTE BINS
Providing dedicated yard waste bins or containers within the community can encourage residents to separate green waste from regular trash. Waste management services can periodically collect these containers for proper disposal or composting.
GREEN WASTE RECYCLING FACILITIES
Community associations can explore partnerships with nearby green waste recycling facilities. These facilities specialize in processing green waste, turning it into valuable products like mulch or compost, which can be used within the community’s landscaping efforts.
Takeaways for Managers
Community associations and condominiums in California have a significant role to play in environmental conservation. By embracing water-saving practices, promoting recycling initiatives, and adopting responsible green waste disposal methods, these communities can lead the way toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
In a state known for its commitment to environmental preservation, it is fitting for community associations and condominiums to set an example by prioritizing sustainable living efforts. By taking these steps, these communities not only reduce their environmental footprint but also create a better quality of life for their residents and contribute to the broader sustainability efforts of California as a whole.
However, as with all considerations in an HOA, finding the right balance for the community is imperative. Some members may push the board to incur undue costs to initiate new green programs, while others will resist participating, even when the law makes it imperative. Making sure that the programs and practices are sustainable, reasonably budget-friendly, and realistic is the path toward success.
