Sustainability Toolbox

Lower Costs and Complaints, Improve Maintenance, Health and Comfort

The social housing sector is a large consumer of electricity, natural gas, water, and materials. In fact, the sector spends approximately $400 million a year on utilities. It is by far the largest controllable cost within social housing.

The GLOBE Sustainability Toolbox focuses on no-cost and low-cost solutions, making it easy for you to engage your staff and residents in conservation activities, and run a more profitable and sustainable business.

What is in the Toolbox?

	Module 1 – Sustainability: An Overview This section describes some of the ways that society, economy and the environment are impacted by our choices, and provides ideas on how to identify opportunities for improvements to your operations and to the health and well-being of residents and staff.
	Module 2 – Building-as-a-System Learn how different aspects of your building work together to impact water and energy use, waste management, utility costs, and health and comfort. Examples are given to assist you in motivating, planning, and implementing improvements in your portfolio.
	Module 3 – Developing a Green Office Program Learn six easy steps that you can take to create a culture of conservation in your office. By implementing many of the tips and processes suggested in this section, you will give your staff hands-on experience, demonstrate real leadership, and show residents that you “walk the talk.”