Green Initiatives by the Housing Authority
The Housing Authority has taken many initiatives to perform more environmentally friendly practices, both in its day-to-day operations as well as in its buildings and units. Installation of green technologies has been taking place on the Housing Authority premises for less energy consumption. Employees have also been made aware of the changes to further promote such practices.
Photovoltaic System
The Housing Authority has taken part in an EU-funded project entitled ERDF 102 – Energy Smart Authority. This project consisted of the installation of a Photovoltaic system, which produced renewable clean energy to be used throughout the Housing Authority offices. This system not only produces clean renewable energy but also reduces harmful carbon dioxide emissions.
Car Usage
Since many offices are located in the vicinities, employees are encouraged to walk so that Housing Authority vehicles are used less and only when it is necessary.
Office Culture and Awareness
With regards to energy efficiency, signage is placed around the buildings for more awareness so that all employees use energy as efficiently as possible. The management works hard to foster a green culture amongst the employees. Furthermore, employees are encouraged to be more energy efficient by switching off lights was they are not needed and turning off computers that are not being used.
With regards to waste management, employees are also encouraged to practice separation of waste rigorously in their offices. Staff members are also advised to reuse already used files and office tools to further reduce the amount of waste produced from the Housing Authority’s offices.
Green Initiatives in Housing Units
The Housing Authority has also been installing shading devices, double-glazed apertures, solar panels, energy saving light fittings and roof insulation in its units for more energy efficiency. Solar water heaters were also installed in some housing units, namely in Blocks A and B in Tal-Ftieħ, Birkirkara. By doing so the Housing Authority is developing a new green culture amongst its tenants.