Sustainable Living in Strata Communities
Sustainable Living in Strata Communities
Living in a strata community means sharing walls, gardens, car parks and, increasingly, a shared responsibility for the planet. While sustainability might conjure up images of sprawling veggie patches or solar panels on a big suburban roof, eco-friendly living is absolutely possible (and powerful) in apartments and townhouse complexes.
Whether you’re a committed green thumb or just want to cut your power bill, here are some smart, realistic ways strata residents and committees can embrace sustainability together.
Composting & recycling (without the mess)
Composting in compact spaces
Shared compost bins: Some strata schemes have communal compost tumblers or worm farms tucked into a garden corner.
Bokashi bins: Perfect for units with no outdoor space they’re sealed, smell-free, and can feed into a community garden’s compost system.
Council programs: Many councils (like City of Sydney and Moreland in VIC) offer subsidised worm farms or compost bins.
Recycling right
Clear signage: Most contamination happens because residents aren’t sure what goes in. Put friendly, visual guides above bins.
Soft plastics: Set up a drop-off point for recycling programs.
E-waste drives: Organise an annual e-waste collection day for old phones, laptops, and cables.
Energy-saving tips for shared and private spaces
Inside your lot
Switch to LED bulbs they use up to 80% less energy.
Use power boards with switches to easily turn off standby appliances.
Choose appliances with high Energy Star ratings.
In common areas
Motion-sensor lighting in car parks, stairwells, and hallways.
Solar panels for shared electricity use (lighting, pool pumps).
Energy-efficient pool heating or covers to reduce heat loss.
Conversion to heat pumps for common hot water.
Example: A Sydney high-rise apartment complex cut common area electricity usage by 30% after switching to LED lighting and gas by 99.999% installing heat pumps for the pool and spa (the only gas used now is for the fireplace in the residents lounge!).
Water-wise living
In apartments
Install water-efficient showerheads and taps.
Run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
Fix dripping taps quickly one drip per second can waste over 12,000 litres a year.
In common property
Plant drought-tolerant natives in shared gardens.
Use drip irrigation systems instead of sprinklers.
Collect rainwater for garden use or cleaning common areas.
Example: A Perth strata scheme installed a rainwater tank to service the garden irrigation system, cutting scheme water use by 40%.
Community-driven sustainability ideas
Communal gardens: Great for herbs, vegetables, and flowers also a natural way to bring neighbours together.
Tool libraries: Instead of each resident owning a drill or ladder, keep shared equipment for occasional use.
Clothing swaps: Reduce textile waste and refresh your wardrobe at the same time.
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations: Future-proof your building and attract eco-minded buyers.
Case in point: A Melbourne high-rise converted part of its visitor parking area into EV charging bays funded through a special levy, with residents paying per use via a mobile app.
Getting started (and getting everyone on board)
Start small one compost bin, a few LED replacements, or a single garden bed.
Communicate clearly share the benefits (and cost savings) with residents.
Apply for grants many councils and state governments offer sustainability funding for strata schemes.
Make it fun turn working bees into BBQ days or run competitions for the “greenest” apartment.
The takeaway
Sustainable living in strata isn’t about grand gestures it’s about a series of small, smart choices that add up. When neighbours work together, even a modest apartment block can become a hub of eco-friendly living. You’ll save money, reduce your environmental footprint, and maybe even grow the best tomatoes in the street.
Frank Borros is the CEO of National Facilities Management
National Facilities Management is a family-owned facilities management company with the capacity to service any client nationally. They believe in long term client relationships and have a strong governance structure with a highly ethical and customer service culture.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Readers should seek independent legal and professional guidance relevant to their specific circumstances and jurisdiction
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