What To Look For in an Eco-Friendly Apartment Building
The housing industry is experiencing a greater demand than ever for eco-friendly apartments. With growing awareness of the climate crisis and sustainability, more and more renters are valuing environmentally conscious living spaces that align with their personal values. But what does it mean for an apartment to be eco-friendly, and how can you spot the features that truly make a difference?
Here’s a closer look at everything you need to know to find an environmentally responsible apartment. From certifications to sustainable designs, these points cover what to look for in an eco-friendly apartment building and show you how to prioritize sustainable living in your next home.
Why Eco-Friendly Apartment Living Is Important
Eco-friendly apartments are essential for renters who want to live sustainably. Buildings account for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions annually, making sustainable housing a critical step toward reducing environmental impact. By choosing an eco-friendly apartment, you’re contributing to energy efficiency, resource conservation, and lower carbon footprints.
Beyond environmental benefits, eco-friendly buildings often result in lower utility bills, better air quality, and healthier living spaces. Investing in eco-friendly living creates a better future while maximizing personal comfort and savings. Your choice can lead to more sustainable communities and inspire other people to follow suit.
What To Look For in an Eco-Friendly Apartment
When you’re searching for an eco-friendly apartment, there are several key features to consider that can make a significant difference in energy efficiency and sustainability. These elements benefit the environment and contribute to a healthier, more cost-effective living experience. Here are some of the major elements to look for.
Green Building Certifications
Third-party certifications that validate a building’s eco-friendly credentials are major indicators of sustainability. Look for recognitions such as Earth Advantage Gold, Path to Net Zero, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), or ENERGY STAR certifications.
These show that the building’s management builds and operates with energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and environmental responsibility in mind. Certifications are trusted measures of a building’s green features and sustainability.
Beyond these certifications, inquire about the materials and resource management plans used during the building’s construction. Transparency from apartment management is key to confirming true eco-conscious design and operations.
Eco-Friendly Construction and Design
Eco-friendly apartment buildings often incorporate sustainable, nontoxic materials and designs that optimize natural resources. Features such as recycled materials, double-glazed windows, and advanced insulation minimize environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency. When you’re touring apartments, pay attention to these details and ask about the building’s construction materials and interior finishes.
The building’s design can also incorporate natural lighting, energy-efficient layouts, and ventilation systems that reduce energy dependency. A thoughtful design lowers operational costs and benefits the environment as well as residents.
Alternative Energy Sources and Support
Finding an eco-friendly apartment also means assessing its energy sources and integration with renewable energy solutions. Does the building use solar panels to generate power? Does it participate in net-zero energy programs for residents?
Properties that support alternative energy sources demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. For example, The Steward apartments are fully electric, use solar panels to source power, and even offer an Electricity Credit Program for residents.
Modern buildings may also provide charging stations for electric vehicles, ensuring convenience and lowering emissions for residents with eco-friendly transportation needs. Access to renewable energy solutions is an important factor in reducing environmental footprints.
Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting
Energy-efficient appliances are must-haves in any eco-friendly apartment. Look for ENERGY STAR–rated refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers, which consume less energy while delivering top performance. Modern heating and cooling systems should also be energy efficient to save power without sacrificing comfort.
Lighting is another critical consideration. LED lighting, which uses significantly less energy than traditional alternatives, should be standard in eco-conscious apartments. These features reduce energy use and cut down on electricity costs.
Water-Saving Fixtures
Water conservation is just as vital as energy efficiency. Check for low-flow faucets and showerheads and dual-flush toilets in bathrooms and kitchens. These fixtures minimize water usage without compromising functionality. Some apartments may even allow you to swap in your own energy-efficient fixtures.
An apartment complex may take this commitment further by installing water recycling systems or using rainwater for landscaping and other non-potable purposes. These initiatives conserve water while ensuring a sustainable water supply for the building.
Sustainable Location
The location of a building can also determine its environmental impact. Apartments that are close to public transportation and essential amenities minimize reliance on personal vehicles, cutting down on emissions. Apartment access to bike racks or carpooling spaces further supports green commuting. If you’re interested in biking or walking around your community, you should also check how bikeable or walkable the area is.
Apartments surrounded by green spaces or gardens improve air quality and promote biodiversity. An eco-friendly environment encourages sustainable habits and enhances resident well-being. Look for properties that balance urban living with environmental harmony.
An Eco-Friendly Community
Eco-friendly living isn’t just about the building—it’s about the sense of community and shared values. Some apartment buildings encourage sustainable habits among residents by offering recycling programs, hosting sustainable gatherings or workshops, or collaborating with local businesses and organizations.
A green community creates opportunities for residents to share ideas and resources, reinforcing the importance of eco-conscious living and building positive relationships. It becomes an ecosystem of like-minded individuals committed to making an impact.
How To Find an Eco-Friendly Apartment Building
Searching for an eco-friendly apartment doesn’t have to be a challenge. Start by prioritizing rental listings that emphasize sustainability. Use reliable apartment rental websites with search filters for energy-efficient properties.
Be proactive by directly asking management about their eco-friendly features when you’re considering a property. Transparency will help you distinguish truly sustainable properties from vague offerings.
For an excellent local example, take a closer look at The Steward Apartments in Tigard, Oregon. Known for its dedication to environmental responsibility, The Steward integrates green certifications, energy-efficient appliances, and community-inspired design. We’ve created an example of how sustainable living can elevate comfort while being kinder to the environment. Browse our available three-bedroom apartments in Tigard, Oregon, today!
Make Sustainable Living Your Priority
Choosing an eco-friendly apartment is a vital step toward living responsibly and reducing your carbon footprint. By looking for sustainable features such as green certifications, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-conscious community initiatives in an eco-friendly apartment, you’re making a difference for yourself, the environment, and future generations.
Take the first step toward sustainable living today by visiting The Steward Apartments in Tigard and exploring how they embody eco-friendly living. Together, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and harmonious planet.
