SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION
Our Riverbend headquarters showcase our commitment to low impact development (LID). Check out our indoor and outdoor sustainability demonstrations and get inspired to conserve water, prevent pollution and reduce your impact on the environment.
GREENSCAPES
Sustainable landscapes which are designed to mimic natural systems, greenscapes use less water, keep water clean and reduce our collective impact on the environment. Our greenscapes demonstrations include:
Native Plant Gardens The right plant in the right spot makes all the difference. Not only do native plants need less water and care to thrive, they provide the food and habitat wildlife need.
Rain Garden With their basin shape and native plants, rain gardens are designed to to collect and survive on rainwater. Not only does this mean that they don’t need additional watering (except during extremely dry conditions), they actually help to filter and clean rain as it enters groundwater.
Green Roof Impervious surfaces, ones that water cannot pass through to the ground, aren’t limited to roads and parking lots. Rooftops both create another run-off surface for rain water and add to heat island effects. Our green roof both captures rain and helps keep Riverbend cooler.
Cistern & Rain Barrel Rain barrels can collect 600 gallons of water from one inch of rain by capturing the run-off from a 1000 square foot house. That means plenty of water stored up to use during dry conditions.
Permeable Pavers Though they are not able to withstand the high speeds needed for road cover, permeable pavers/pavement are great solutions for parking areas and sidewalks. They help to recharge groundwater by allow precipitation to filter through, rather than forcing it to run off. Not only does this help to keep the river flowing, it cuts down on stormwater pollution.Learn more about Greenscapes solutions at greenscapes.org
Check out the Greenscapes Guide to plan your own sustainable landscape! View the guide online or grab a free printed copy at Riverbend.
Beat the heat! Developed areas are often hotter than nearby rural areas. Trees and vegetation can help lower temperatures through evapotranspiration.
SMART ENERGY
EV Charging Station Our Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station, located on the side of our garage, allows members to plug in for free anytime they visit Riverbend.
Solar Array Located on the garage rooftop is our 4 KW photovoltaic Solar Array which generates 80% of the power used at Riverbend—including the EV station!
Saving Energy and Water Indoors Our shower, dishwasher, clothes washer, toilet and sink fixtures have all been upgraded to water efficient models. In addition to the water efficient appliances, our indoor upgrades include switching to all LED lighting and smart power strips.