Senior Living Facility Celebrates LEED Silver Status for Sustainability

, a senior living facility on Tamalpais Avenue in Novato, has garnered accolades for its energy efficiency and green technology since its top-to-bottom makeover completed in 2010. It’s most recent accomplishment is its achievement as Silver Level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

The facility is the first in the nationwide Atria community to earn LEED silver distinction, and that fact was celebrated recently at a gathering of dignitaries.

"Atria Senior Living is a true pioneer of energy efficiency and green technology within the senior living industry," said state Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, who represents Novato in the Capitol. "Atria Tamalpais Creek is an impressive model of green infrastructure and provides a healthy and sustainable living and working environment for Marin County citizens. I am pleased that Atria is setting
the standard for greener living in my district."

Department of Consumer Affairs Secretary Anna Caballero also was on hand at the June 30 event, as was Linda Adams, secretary for the California Environmental Protection Agency. 

“This is a perfect example of how companies can go green and save their bottom line,” Adams said. “By increasing sustainability, Atria Tamalpais Creek can save money, help the environment and provide its residents with top-of-the-line healthy living.  … I applaud their commitment to the health of its residents and to our environment.”
In 2010, Atria Tamalpais Creek underwent a redevelopment and renovation project that included several environmentally friendly factors, including the use of regionally sourced materials, a clean air initiative using low-VOC paint and carpet, installation of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, and integration of recycling programs and adequate green space.  

To conserve resources and reduce waste, 93 percent of the existing building was reused in the renovation and more than 576 tons of waste was diverted from the landfill. Low-flow water fixtures are expected to reduce water usage by 30 percent.
John Zikmund, executive director of Atria Tamalpais Creek, said environmental sustainability will continue to be a focus for Atria and that the staff was excited and proud of the LEED distinction.

Focusing on sustainability “benefits our residents, employees and the environment, but it also ensures that we are providing the best possible senior living options to current and future generations,” Zikmund said.