Across the U.S., more than 1.5 million people reside in housing cooperatives, which are stepping up to address climate change through sustainable practices. This initiative highlights the proactive efforts of local co-op communities to create a positive environmental impact. Published by Bio Friendly Planet, this article by Emila Smith discusses eco-friendly solutions for housing cooperatives and provides three examples of communities working towards sustainability.
š Green Solutions for Housing Co-ops
The real estate industry is a significant contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately 39% of total global emissions, second only to the oil and gas sector. New constructions require substantial resources like concrete and steel, while older buildings often lack energy efficiency. Thus, upgrading to energy-efficient solutions is crucial for reducing carbon footprints and financial costs associated with housing cooperatives. The article emphasizes the importance of low-carbon heating and cooling systems, energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and improved building insulation.
āļø Adoption of Renewable Energy
Housing cooperatives are increasingly adopting renewable energy solutions such as solar panels, which are a popular eco-friendly modification. Approximately 3.4% of electricity in the U.S. is generated by solar panels, a trend that has been growing since 2021. Furthermore, urban agriculture is becoming more prevalent, with an estimated 29,000 community gardens across the U.S., promoting sustainable living practices.
š± Housing Co-op Examples with Impact
The article showcases three housing cooperatives that have successfully implemented climate-friendly solutions. The Raise-op Housing Cooperative in Lewiston, Maine, features certified passive house buildings and roof-mounted solar panels, generating around 50% of the building's yearly energy needs. The Hillcrest Community Cooperative in Clarks Grove, Minnesota, has reduced energy bills by 40% after installing solar panels. Meanwhile, Riverton Community Housing in Minneapolis partnered with All Energy Solar to offset approximately 470,000 KWh of energy on the standard electric grid, also establishing compost stations and a community garden that uses rainwater for irrigation.
š Conclusion
In summary, through innovative solutions, housing cooperatives can significantly impact their communities and the environment. By choosing sustainable practices like solar energy and community gardening, these co-ops can inspire others to adopt similar approaches, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.