Atlanta, Georgia is a thriving metropolis of over 500,000 people. Atlanta, known for its rich history, delicious food, and thriving arts scene, is also a city that is embracing sustainable living. The city has implemented a number of programs and initiatives in recent years to promote green living, ranging from energy-efficient buildings to urban agriculture projects. If you want to live sustainably in Atlanta, here's a list of some of the best sustainable homes and communities.
Sustainable Homes in Atlanta
Atlanta has a lot to offer in terms of environmentally friendly homes. Here are some of the best sustainable homes in the city, with everything from green building certifications to solar panels:
The Reynoldstown Senior Residences: This affordable housing community was built with sustainable design features, such as Energy Star appliances and high-efficiency HVAC systems. It also has a green roof, which helps to reduce stormwater runoff and improve air quality.
EcoManor: This LEED-certified home in Buckhead is one of the most energy-efficient homes in Atlanta. It features geothermal heating and cooling, a rainwater harvesting system, and solar panels.
The Museum School: This public charter school in Avondale Estates was built with sustainable design features, such as a green roof, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting system. It also has an outdoor classroom and garden, which provides students with hands-on learning opportunities.
Sustainable Communities in Atlanta
If you're looking for a sustainable community to live in, Atlanta has several options. These communities prioritize sustainability and provide residents with access to green spaces, environmentally friendly transportation, and community gardens. Here are some examples:
Serenbe: Located just outside of Atlanta in Chattahoochee Hills, Serenbe is a sustainable community that prioritizes walkability, green space, and sustainability. It has a working farm, community gardens, and a variety of green homes.
East Lake: This historic Atlanta neighborhood has undergone a revitalization in recent years, with a focus on sustainability. It has a community garden, farmers market, and a variety of green homes, including the Villages of East Lake, a mixed-income community with sustainable design features.
Westside Provisions: This mixed-use development in Atlanta's Westside neighborhood prioritizes sustainability, with features such as rainwater harvesting, green roofs, and bike racks. It also has a variety of shops and restaurants that prioritize local and sustainable sourcing.
Sustainable Living in Atlanta
In addition to sustainable homes and communities, there are also plenty of ways to live sustainably in Atlanta. Here are a few tips:
Use sustainable transportation: Atlanta has a number of options for sustainable transportation, including MARTA (the city's public transit system), bike share programs, and electric scooters. By using these options instead of driving alone, you can reduce your carbon footprint.
Shop local and sustainable: Atlanta has a number of farmers markets and locally-owned businesses that prioritize sustainability. By shopping at these businesses, you can support the local economy and reduce your environmental impact.
Practice sustainable habits: Simple habits, such as turning off lights when you leave a room or reducing your water usage, can also have a big impact on sustainability. By making small changes to your daily habits, you can reduce your environmental impact and live more sustainably.
Atlanta may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of sustainability, but the city is moving in the right direction. There are numerous options for living sustainably in Atlanta, ranging from sustainable homes and communities to sustainable transportation and habits. You can help to create a more sustainable future for the city and the planet by prioritizing sustainability in your daily life.