Sustainability

Towbes Sustainability

The Towbes Group is proud to be an environmentally responsible organization.

A Certified Green Business, the company utilizes best green practices in the areas of waste, resource efficiency and transportation at its Santa Barbara headquarters. Environmental sustainability also is incorporated into The Towbes Group’s residential and commercial real estate portfolio.

Waste

To reduce waste at The Towbes Group’s corporate office, disposable kitchen products have been replaced with ceramics and washable silverware. Recycling bins are provided throughout the office. Green purchasing policies are in place, and the slogan “Scan When You Can” is found on office equipment to discourage copying. These efforts, coupled with participation in the foodscrap program, enabled The Towbes Group to achieve 85 percent waste diversion.

Resource Efficiency

The company upgraded its employee restrooms to be water efficient, replacing older toilets with new ultra-low flow models, and less efficient lighting was replaced. These major enhancements contribute to long-term facility operational improvements through resource efficiency.

Transportation

The corporate office also promotes the use of alternative transportation by offering its employees fully subsidized transit fare, as well as bicycle raffles and carpooling rewards redeemable for local merchant gift cards. An electric car — “Towbie” — is available to employees throughout the day for errands. Bike storage and on-site shower facilities are also provided.

As a full service real estate company with a portfolio of more than 2,400 residential units and 1.8 million square feet of commercial space, The Towbes Group is extending its green business practices beyond its Santa Barbara office. Today these green habits are integrated across the Towbes residential and commercial real estate portfolio to improve practices and provide resources to residents and tenants.