Sustainable Practices in Strata and Community Title Living Implementing eco-friendly initiatives in shared properties.
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it’s a practical way to reduce costs, improve comfort, and create a more liveable community. In strata and community title schemes, where dozens or even hundreds of people share facilities and resources, small changes can make a big difference. By working together, residents and owners can make their buildings greener, cleaner, and more energy-efficient without major expense or disruption.
Why Sustainability Matters in Shared Living
Sustainable living is about using resources wisely so that today’s choices don’t compromise tomorrow’s needs. For strata and community schemes, this translates into smarter energy use, better waste management, and thoughtful maintenance of common areas. The benefits are both environmental and financial lower utility bills, fewer maintenance issues, and an enhanced property value.
There’s also a community benefit: eco-friendly initiatives often bring people together. Whether it’s a recycling drive, a native planting day, or a push to reduce plastic waste, these shared goals can help foster a sense of pride and cooperation within the scheme.
Seven Simple & Practical Steps Toward a Greener Building
You don’t have to install solar panels or overhaul the plumbing to make a difference. Here are some easy, achievable ways to introduce sustainable practices into strata and community living:
1. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Replacing old light fittings in hallways, garages, and other common areas with LED or motion-sensor lighting can significantly reduce energy costs. Lighting upgrades often pay for themselves within a year or two through lower electricity bills (check federal, state or territory goverment websites for rebate programmes.)
2. Use Timers and Smart Controls
Automated timers for outdoor lights, pumps, and ventilation fans prevent unnecessary energy use. Many modern systems are app-controlled, making them easy for managers to monitor and adjust.
3. Improve Recycling and Waste Management
Most residents want to recycle but may not know what goes where. Clear signage, separate bins for glass, paper, and soft plastics, and a compost bin for green waste can all make recycling easier. Consider hosting a “waste education” session or partnering with local councils for e-waste or clothing recycling drives.
4. Reduce Water Waste
Simple upgrades like low-flow shower heads, dual-flush toilets, and tap aerators in both lots and common areas can cut water use dramatically. Regularly check for leaks in irrigation systems or common area plumbing a single dripping tap can waste thousands of litres each year, saving money on levies.
5. Choose Green Cleaning Products
Switching to environmentally friendly cleaning supplies for common areas reduces chemical runoff and improves air quality. It’s a simple step that supports both the environment and resident wellbeing.
6. Add Some Greenery
Plants are natural air purifiers and can soften hard surfaces in urban environments. Rooftop or balcony gardens, vertical green walls, or simply adding potted plants in foyers and courtyards can enhance aesthetics and reduce heat absorption. Choose drought-tolerant native species that require minimal watering.
7. Support Greener Transport
Installing electric vehicle (EV) charging points, bike racks, or car-share parking spaces encourages residents to make more sustainable transport choices. Even a simple noticeboard or digital hub for carpooling can reduce the number of cars on site.
Encouraging Resident Involvement
The success of sustainability initiatives often depends on community participation. Here are a few ways to engage owners and residents:
Lead by example: The strata schemes or community associations can adopt a sustainability policy outlining goals such as reducing waste or improving energy efficiency.
Communicate regularly: Use newsletters, noticeboards, or the strata portal to share progress, tips, and success stories.
Create friendly challenges: A “reduce your waste” month or “green balcony” competition can make sustainability fun and engaging.
Offer small incentives: Recognising eco-conscious residents or rewarding participation with small prizes can boost motivation.
Collaborate with professionals: Energy auditors or sustainability consultants can identify easy wins and longer-term improvements tailored to your building.
A key message is that sustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Often, it’s about awareness and small behaviour changes switching off lights, avoiding single-use plastics, or maintaining appliances efficiently. When everyone contributes, the collective impact is significant.
Chris Earthrowl has held the role of Managing Director at Clean Green Strata for two decades.
Chris and Clean Green Strata hold memberships with Strata Community Association supplier chapter, the Facility Management Association of Australia and the Entrepreneur’s Organisation Sydney. Chris holds a Bachelor of Business & Marketing and formal management and leadership training. Chris is a big supporter of a positive, dynamic, flexible work environment, successfully being an employer of choice attracting the best Facilities Management and consultancy