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Feature article from our sponsor, IFF, 1/23/2025

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Sustainability on a Budget: How Nonprofits Can Create Greener Buildings

By Scott Hackenberg, Managing Director of Lending – Eastern Region

 

As nonprofits work to address pressing community needs, environmental sustainability has often taken a backseat. However, by investing in sustainable building improvements, nonprofits can reduce their environmental impact, build resilience, and achieve long-term cost savings that offset their initial investments.

The good news is, creating a more sustainable building doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Small, budget-friendly projects can still make a big difference, allowing nonprofits to reinvest savings into their core programs. Here are three simple, cost-effective ways nonprofits can make their facilities more sustainable:

Tackle Deferred Maintenance: Routine maintenance issues, such as leaks, gaps in doors and windows, or roof problems, often get overlooked. However, failing to address these can lead to higher energy costs and bigger, more expensive repairs in the future. Fixing leaks and ensuring windows and doors are properly sealed prevents heated or cooled air from escaping, which can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. Tackling small repairs now can help your building become more energy efficient and ultimately save you money in the long run.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting: Lighting is one of the easiest and most cost-effective areas for nonprofits to reduce energy consumption. Swapping out incandescent or fluorescent bulbs for LED fixtures can reduce energy usage by up to 75%. LEDs last longer, use less electricity, and are available in various options to suit any space. This simple upgrade not only reduces your building's carbon footprint but also cuts down on utility bills, freeing up funds for your core programs.

Invest in Water-Saving Fixtures: Water conservation is another simple yet impactful way to make your facility more sustainable. Installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads can reduce water consumption and lower water utility costs. This is especially important for nonprofits that serve large groups or have high-water-use facilities. Reducing water waste benefits both the environment and your organization’s bottom line, making it a smart investment that can pay off over time.

 

Take the First Step

You don’t need a huge budget to make a big impact. Simple changes like upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, sealing leaks, and reducing water waste can transform your building into a more sustainable space while also supporting your organization’s mission. To learn more about how you can take steps toward a greener future, visit https://iff.org/sustainability/.

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