“We’re green, we’re gray and we’re not going away!”

The title of this article is the theme of Senior Stewards Acting for the Environment (SSAFE) (ssafe.org) reflecting two facts and a commitment.  The organization was formed in 2019, just prior to environmentalist Bill McKibben’s effort – Third Act (thirdact.org) - to encourage those over the age of 60 to become involved in climate issues.  Both efforts recognize the value this age group can bring to influence action to meet national climate goals – years of experience, a larger share of society’s financial worth and they vote.

SSAFE differs in that it is targeted to senior living communities.  It was inspired by residents living in Kendal communities.  Currently there are eleven Kendal affiliates, including Kendal at Hanover. The overall goal is to “set Kendal affiliates and other elder communities on the pathway to 50% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050”  through advocacy, education and implementing strategies “for creating environmentally friendly elder communities, using science-based and professionally guided best practices.” (ssafe.org)

In its two plus years, SSAFE’s Advocacy Team has joined national campaigns supporting Strong Truck Emission Standards, stopping methane  pipe leakage and supporting the Break Free Plastic Pollution Act.  Local Advocacy Team members have tracked State and local legislation and encouraged petitions and letter writing campaigns.  SSAFE’s Greening Team goals include addressing campus buildings and developing a carbon-neutrality road map.  The result has been actively promoting sustainability through encouraging energy audits and adopting carbon footprint calculation methodology. They have also been active in developing sustainable food projects such as hydroponics, composting and recycling.

SSAFE’s Kendal at Hanover group has a membership of approximately one hundred and fifty. Its Green Team, working with the Facilities Department, conducted a successful campus-wide program of replacing fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs.  This will help reduce Kendal’s carbon emissions footprint as well as electricity costs. With encouragement of SSAFE, Board and administrative support, Resilient Buildings Group was selected to conduct an energy audit of the facilities which will be completed this year.  The results will be incorporated into K@H’s long range plan for future action.  Recycling has long been a campus wide effort. SSAFE members reactivated a moribund composting program recently adding three 35 gallon composting bins for residential use.  Ongoing education programs keep all residents informed about sustainable opportunities, most recently through a series of earth day celebratory events.

SSAFE’s impact on all of the Kendal affiliates has been significant as well as energizing. They’re not going away!