Every year, Earth Day serves as a global reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the planet. What began in 1970 as a movement to raise awareness about environmental issues has grown into an international call to action—encouraging individuals and communities to embrace sustainable practices that safeguard natural resources for future generations.
Across Ingleside’s communities, sustainability isn’t just a once-a-year celebration—it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life for residents and staff. While Earth Day serves as a special reminder to care for our planet, community members embrace eco-friendly practices year-round whether through the upkeep of Ingleside’s lush community gardens or the use of energy-efficient buildings, residents and staff work hand-in-hand to care for the environment in big and small ways.
In the heart of Washington, DC, Ingleside At Rock Creek is a beacon of environmental responsibility. Their recent expansion projects of independent living and healthcare center are Silver-level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified and exemplifies what it means to live sustainably in an urban setting. Every aspect of its design—from energy-saving features to environmentally friendly materials—reflects a commitment to high-performance green living.
At Westminster At Lake Ridge, residents don’t just admire nature, they actively nurture it by tending to the land with care and purpose. Set on 62 acres of wildlife-rich, beautifully maintained grounds, a deep commitment to conservation shapes daily life. Residents and staff work together to restore native trees to help provide a thriving habitat for local wildlife. Westminster at Lake Ridge is both a certified wildlife sanctuary and an Audubon-certified community, a reflection of their deep-rooted commitment to protecting and enhancing the environment.
Sustainability is a collaborative effort across multiple departments, with innovative programs that go beyond the expected. In partnership with Montgomery County, Ingleside at King Farm has embraced composting, ensuring food scraps return to the earth rather than landfills. Dining services have reimagined menus to incorporate more plant-based options, supporting “Meatless Mondays” and offering delicious, eco-conscious meals through an all-new farm-to-table dining approach. Behind the scenes, new technology helps track and analyze potential food waste, reducing unnecessary excess while the introduction of a micro farm brings fresh, homegrown greens to the dining menu, adding yet another layer of sustainability to daily life.
The dedication to the environment is evident throughout all Ingleside communities. Residents tend to use vibrant community garden plots, repurpose clothing, holiday cards, furniture, and books through donation partnerships, while others and their visitors embrace electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support greener transportation.
Outdoor spaces at Ingleside are thoughtfully designed not just for people but for wildlife to flourish, reinforcing the deep connection between residents and nature. At the heart of it all, are the passionate members of Ingleside’s Resident Green Teams—individuals who champion sustainable practices and inspire those around them to do the same.
The culture of sustainability throughout Ingleside’s communities extends well beyond Earth Day! To learn more about the sustainability efforts at Ingleside, visit us online!