Resident Engagement: Teaching Sustainability Without Greenwashing

“Sustainability” has become a buzzword in community living and with good reason. Residents across Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and suburban Maryland increasingly want to live in communities that care about the environment and make responsible choices. But for community association managers, there’s a fine line between meaningful sustainability and

empty messaging that feels like, well... greenwashing.

At CoPS on Doody, we believe that teaching sustainability should be honest, practical, and tied to actions residents can actually see. When done right, sustainability becomes a shared community value not just a line in a brochure.

Here’s how you can engage residents in your community’s green efforts without overpromising, overselling, or overwhelming.

Make It Local, Make It Real

People care more when they can see the impact in their own backyard. Instead of vague statements like “we’re going green,” show your residents what that actually looks like. Are you using bio-based dog waste bags to reduce plastic consumption in your pet stations? Say so and explain how they help reduce petroleum use and landfill waste.

When we introduce USDA-certified 38% bio-based bags and liners to a community, we can provide digital materials that explain the benefit in everyday terms. Its not about flashy claims it’s about real, measurable steps toward reducing the community’s environmental footprint.

Especially in areas like Montgomery County or Arlington, where many residents are already tuned in to environmental issues, transparency earns trust.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Residents don’t expect perfection, but they do appreciate progress. If your HOA or apartment. community is taking steps toward better waste management, energy conservation, or water usage, share those milestones. Even small wins, like switching to more efficient lighting or using drought-tolerant landscaping, can be framed as part of a larger effort.

The key is not to exaggerate. You don’t need to promise to become “the greenest HOA in the region.” Instead, show that your community is thoughtful, intentional, and continually

improving.

We’ve seen communities in Upper Marlboro, Silver Spring, and Falls Church generate meaningful engagement by simply being honest: “We’re not perfect, but here’s one thing we’re doing better this year.”

Use Language That Educates, Not Lectures

People respond better to friendly reminders than finger-pointing. Rather than posting signs that scold, try messaging that invites residents to participate:

“Our pet waste bags are made with 38% plant-based materials—thank you for helping us cut plastic waste in our neighborhood!”

“Did you know? Every bag you use here helps reduce the community’s carbon footprint.” These types of messages are especially effective in high-use areas like parks, trails, or pet-friendly courtyards common in Prince George’s County and Northwest DC.

Make Residents Part of the Solution

Invite residents into the process. That could mean surveying them on future sustainability goals, sharing annual impact reports in newsletters, or even spotlighting families who consistently support community initiatives. When people feel like part of the mission, they’re far more likely to stay engaged.

CoPS on Doody often partners with managers to offer community pet waste education events, and other resident-facing opportunities that reinforce shared values without relying on fear-based messaging or guilt trips.

Avoid the Trap of “Green for Appearances”

One of the biggest pitfalls in sustainability messaging is promoting a program that sounds good but lacks follow-through. If you say your community is using sustainable materials, make sure your vendors actually are. For example, not all “eco-friendly” dog waste bags are truly bio-based. Some are just green in color or worse, labeled “compostable” but destined for the landfill.

We work hard to ensure that the communities we serve in Northern Virginia and the greater DC area get bags and liners that are both certified and high-performing—so managers can stand behind their sustainability claims with confidence.

The Bottom Line: Be Credible, Be Consistent

Residents don’t expect their community to be perfect. But they do want honesty. If your association is committed to sustainability, let that be reflected in your choices, your vendors, and your communication. Skip the buzzwords and focus on what’s real.

CoPS on Doody is here to help communities put their sustainability goals into action—whether it’s through greener waste management, cleaner common areas, or smarter resident engagement tools. We serve HOAs, apartment communities, and municipalities throughout DC, Northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland, and we’d love to be part of your community’s sustainability

journey.