STORING THE PLANET – HOW SELF STORAGE IS GOING GREEN
We all know that our impact on the environment is vitally important and individuals and industries around the globe are working hard to introduce green practices to reduce their footprint.
Self Storage is no exception and embracing eco-friendly practices is a growing trend which not only helps to tackle climate change, but is very appealing to customers who are growing increasingly motivated to use service providers who embrace sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Did you know that the world’s first net-zero-certified self storage building recently opened in Canada? Maple Meadows has eliminated fossil fuel use, gone entirely solar-powered and has worked miracles at optimising energy efficiency and, by doing so, has set a precedent for self storage facilities the world over.
Let’s take a look at some sustainable self-storage practices as we all play our part in helping save the planet.
Building Design
Let’s start with the basic structure of things. Energy efficient design is fast becoming a priority in self storage facilities, helping to lower carbon emissions and make the storage environment a more pleasant place overall.
Recycled steel and concrete in building new facilities gets everything off to a cracking start. You can then incorporate other features like natural lighting and insulation, rainwater harvesting and solar panels. Cool roofs in warmer climates than ours are particularly, well … cool, using reflective roofing materials to reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs. Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems use less energy overall and still maintain the perfect temperature in climate-controlled units. And how about permeable paving which allows rainwater to filter through and reduce runoff which is helpful in supporting crucial groundwater recharge?
Energy Efficiency
It’s all about the carbon footprint, and the less energy we use, the smaller the step we leave behind.
Solar Panels are so widely used both domestically and in industry and business. Reducing the reliance on traditional fossil fuels and generating clean and renewable energy, it’s a no brainer to instal these efficient and effective sun-catching, power-generating miracles, even in cloudy Ireland. Your electricity bills overall will be cheaper too – a cost saving that can be passed on to facility users.
Advanced insulation materials are well worth investing in, keeping temperatures controlled easily. And, of course, LED lighting is the way to go, particularly motion-activated so no one can forget to turn the light off! Zoning technology works well when it comes to heating and cooling too.
Water Conservation
Rainwater harvesting in our maritime climate is a bountiful exercise, and installing water-saving techniques like low flow fixtures in toilets is a fantastic way to keep water waste to a minimum. It’s also a good practice for facility management to fix leaks promptly and encourage responsible habits among everyone who makes use of the facility.
Waste Management
We’re all reducing, reusing and recycling at home and at work so it shouldn’t be too difficult to keep up the good work at our storage facilities.
Green Landscaping
A bit of greenery about the place not only looks nice, and makes it a more pleasant place to be, where possible, but it can also up the eco credentials too. Using native plants will reduce the need for watering and conserve that precious H20, and bioswales – landscaped drainage features – are designed to manage and filter natural water runoff, helpful in reducing flooding and improving water quality.
Sustainable Transport Options
Car-charging ports for electric cars for both staff and customers help make it easier for us to choose cleaner ways of driving. And the simple installation of a bike rack will facilitate some pedal power going down – when there’s not a big load to carry, of course!
Digitisation
Paperwork is SO over. Using tech for bookings, contracts, billing etc. eliminate paper waste. And with the wonders of the IoT to be accessed, security can also be automated, reducing the need for onsite staff with the additional costs of heating, electricity etc.
Recycle, Recycle, Recycle
Converting shipping containers into storage units is one great way to ensure they don’t go to waste. Users could also be more conscious of packing materials – recyclable and biodegradable containers are a great way to keep your stuff safe and your conscience clear.
Sustainability Goals
It’s good to aim high and incorporating net zero goals into future plans is a great way to focus the plans for the future. And a little carbon offsetting – tree planting, for example – is not only environmentally friendly, it’s great PR too – it’s a good thing overall to give something back to the local community.
Future Proofing
Increasing numbers of storage facilities are embracing sustainability, minimising their footprint and enhancing operational efficiency while they’re at it! All of which combines to contribute positively to combating climate change and appeal to eco-conscious users. And the future’s going to be even greener as we all make more responsible choices and embrace the trends that will keep our planet beautiful and able to sustain us for even longer.
Unlock the freedom of extra space. Get in touch with Storage World today or get a quote online.
