It is no secret that climate change and its adverse effects are an increasingly relevant topic in both urban and rural communities across the United States. Every corner of the country has experienced drastic weather patterns that have been attributed to climate change. For example, in 2021, once-in-a-lifetime winter storms knocked out power in Texas while intense wildfires blazed across much of the West.
What is more controversial are the conversations on how to make a difference — particularly when it comes to protecting the socioeconomically disadvantaged populations that feel the adverse effects of climate change most keenly. Enterprise Green Communities and Green Community developers are a part of the solution to these complex problems, providing affordable housing projects that are environmentally sustainable and focused on residents’ health and well-being.
Enterprise Green Communities are a national nonprofit organization that was created with and for the affordable housing sector. This organization was founded in 2004 and collaborates with developers, investors, builders, policymakers, health care practitioners, and other stakeholders to provide quality, sustainable housing for individuals.
Enterprise Green Communities are promoted in 31 states, including Utah, through the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. An Enterprise Green Communities certification is available to any housing development in the United States which offers affordable living solutions designed to support a lower carbon footprint. The 2020 Green Communities Criteria are the newest version of the award-winning standards aimed at further reducing emissions and recognizing developers who are moving toward or achieving zero-energy homes.
Thus far, Enterprise Green Communities have created healthy, sustainable, and affordable homes for over 1 million people. They have also saved owners and residents over $10 million in energy costs, prevented 28,000 tons of CO2 emissions, and preserved close to 15 billion gallons of water. The high standards set by the Enterprise Green Communities certification will continue to benefit the environment, builders, and residents far into the future.
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