As our world faces increasing environmental challenges, sustainable living has become a pressing need for individuals and communities alike. In this regard, many housing societies have stepped up and taken outstanding initiatives to promote sustainable living practices among their residents. Such initiatives contribute towards preserving the environment and leading to a better quality of life for the residents.
In this blog post, we have featured Prestige Ferns Residency, nominated for the Rise High Awards 2023 presented by ADDA for Excellence in Community Governance. Their inspiring initiatives serve as examples of how communities can come together to positively impact the environment and create a better future for generations to come.
- Want to know more about Rise High Awards? Check out this blog.
Here’s a closer look at the different initiatives taken by the community
- Installing a 200-kilowatt solar rooftop system: One of the most notable initiatives the association took is installing a 200-kilowatt solar rooftop system, which produces annual savings of around 25 lacs. This switch to clean energy saves money, reduces the community’s carbon footprint, and saves money on energy bills.
- Increased STP recycling: After association formation, the community went from very minimal to maximum STP recycling. The recycled water is now being reused for various purposes. The recycled water is now used for all landscaping areas and flushing, and even for maintaining the water body in the community. This step has helped the community to conserve water and reduce the burden on the municipal supply.
- Rainwater harvesting is another area where Prestige Ferns has set a benchmark. They have gone from zero to 9 lakh liters per day during the rainy season, reducing their reliance on groundwater and conserving water. This means that the community can now collect a significant amount of rainwater, which can be used for various purposes, thus reducing the dependence on groundwater.
- Optimization of water usage: The community went from 40 KL borewell yield to 160 KL borewell yield through automated and continuous monitoring, conserving water and reducing wastage.
- Reduction of diesel consumption: The community went from zero diesel savings to around 4 lakh savings per annum through daily checks, reducing pollution and cost.
- Implementation of EV charging points: The community implemented EV charging points in common areas, promoting sustainable transport.
- Power-saving initiatives: The community implemented various power-saving initiatives via LED, lesser-wattage lights, and optimized STP operations, among others.
- Almost 100% segregation of waste: The community achieved almost 100% segregation at the source, a significant step towards effective waste management.
- Overall maintenance of landscaping: The community focused on the overall maintenance of landscaping, enhancing the beauty and sustainability of the community.
- Implementation of automated RFID-based entry: The community implemented automated RFID-based entry for residents, improving security while reducing paper wastage.
- Increased CCTV coverage: The community increased CCTV coverage two times by covering all 70 lifts and all basement driveways, enhancing security.
- Free medical consultation for staff: The community initiated free medical consultation for all its 150+ staff, apart from the mandatory ESI benefit, a commendable step towards caring for its employees.
- The association has also taken several steps to conserve electricity, which has resulted in savings of 10 to 15 lacs per annum. These steps include installing energy-efficient lighting, motion sensors, and timers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Prestige Ferns Residency has taken several initiatives toward sustainability, demonstrating its commitment to the environment and the well-being of its residents. The community is an excellent role model for other communities to follow in their footsteps towards a sustainable future.
In addition to the remarkable sustainability initiatives taken by housing societies, it’s important to acknowledge the support and commitment of our sponsors towards this event.
Our Co-Title Sponsor, Spintly, and our value sponsors, Nemmadi, Uniservice, R Buy, and Agarwal Estates, have contributed to the Rise High Awards. Their support has enabled us to recognize and promote sustainable practices in housing societies and communities. We hope to continue this partnership and work towards a more sustainable world.
Join the Movement for Positive Change
Communities have a critical role to play in creating a sustainable future for our planet, and initiatives like those taken by Prestige Ferns Residency are a testament to the power of collective action. By coming together and implementing sustainable practices, we can not only reduce our carbon footprint but also create healthier, more livable environments for ourselves and future generations.
So, let’s be inspired by the example set by Prestige Ferns Residency and take action in our own communities. By working together and implementing sustainable practices, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for all.