Living Green Tenant Conservation Program

In 2011, the Network conducted a conservation education pilot program in three buildings undergoing energy retrofits.

The Living Green Tenant Conservation Program included four sessions in each building. With the guidance of an environmental psychologist from Green Strides Consulting, the Network conducted in-person and on-paper surveys of building staff and tenants to determine what kinds of energy and water conservation efforts would be most effective in their buildings. Based on the responses, each building’s Living Green program was tailored to its residents to best explain how energy and water use and other lifestyle habits affect their building, the owner and the environment. Tenant appreciation of these issues and how they can make changes in their own behaviors were illustrated and discussed, also conveying skills relevant to independent living.

The resources that were developed can provide ideas or a template for individualized programs in other buildings. They represent approaches that are to be modified and customized to different buildings. The first step undertaken is to understand energy and water use patterns in a specific building by surveying staff and tenants. Using this information, providers can develop strategies and materials to help staff share green living strategies with their tenants.

Pilot Program Methodology

The six steps taken to develop and implement a tenant conservation education program.

Lesson Plans

Lesson plans to start a Living Green program at your building.

Suggested Tools

Information on the tools used in our lesson plans. 

Living Green Tenant Conservation Program Participants