Making the Case for Net Zero

As a member of your community’s sustainability committee or administration, you may need to explain why aggressive action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is essential. Below is a brief summary of the reasons senior living communities should prioritize this important work. 

Each topic includes links for deeper learning, so you can assemble the information most relevant to your community and build your own ‘Case for Net Zero.’

Evidence for Climate Warming

Scientific evidence shows that our planet is warming rapidly due to human activities, mainly the burning of fossil fuels. Over the last century, global temperatures have risen significantly. The past decade has been the warmest on record. This warming is linked to increases in greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

We observe rising surface temperatures, shrinking glaciers and Arctic sea ice, warming oceans, and more frequent extreme weather. These changes are already impacting communities and ecosystems. The scientific consensus is clear: we must reduce emissions quickly to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

For more information, see:
IPCC Sixth Assessment Report

Effects: Heat, Storms, Floods, Droughts, Fires, Suffering, Death

Climate change brings far more than warmer temperatures. It is driving an increase in dangerous heat waves, prolonged droughts, destructive floods, wildfires, and severe storms. These events disrupt communities, damage property, and put lives at risk. Older adults are particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme heat and other disasters, making senior living communities especially sensitive to these impacts.

Beyond the immediate health and safety risks, climate-related disasters often lead to displacement, financial loss, and higher costs for recovery. They also strain emergency services and contribute to rising insurance premiums, which affect residents and communities alike. By acting now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, senior living communities can play a vital role in protecting health, safety, and overall well-being—both within their campuses and in the broader world they are part of.

For more information, see:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Climate Effects on Health

Social Cost of Carbon

Burning fossil fuels creates hidden costs that society pays through health problems, property damage, lost crops, and extreme weather. The social cost of carbon estimates the economic damage from each ton of CO₂ released.

According to a 2025 analysis by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), failing to limit global warming to below 2°C could reduce cumulative global economic output by 15% to 34% by 2100. In contrast, investing just 1% to 2% of global GDP in mitigation and adaptation could avoid most of these losses.

For more information, see:
Why Investing in Climate Action Makes Good Economic Sense

Urgency: Bathtub Analogy

Think of the atmosphere as a bathtub filling with water. The faucet is the greenhouse gases we emit, and the drain is the Earth’s natural ability to absorb them. At present, the faucet is running full force, while the drain works very slowly. Because emissions are entering faster than they can be removed, the water level continues to rise. If the tub overflows, we face severe climate impacts. The only way to prevent this outcome is to turn down the faucet by reducing emissions quickly and significantly. For senior living communities, this means adopting strategies such as transitioning to renewable power, removing fossil fuels, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing waste, all of which help keep the tub from spilling over.

For more information, see:
The Climate Bathtub Simulation by Climate Interactive

The Moral Case

Climate change most deeply affects those who have contributed the least such as vulnerable older adults and low-income populations. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is thus both a matter of justice and a responsibility to future generations. Senior living communities can exemplify this ethical leadership, emphasizing that older adults care deeply about leaving a meaningful legacy.

For more information, see:
People Who’ve Contributed Least to Climate Change Are Most Affected By It

Market Competition

Prospective residents increasingly pay attention to how a senior living community addresses environmental concerns. Seniors often want assurance that the community they choose is forward-looking, responsible, and aligned with values of stewardship. Communities that adopt sustainable measures not only save money through efficiency but also strengthen their reputation and build trust with residents, staff, and the surrounding public.

Environmental responsibility is becoming a key factor in choosing senior living options, much like quality of care, location, or amenities. Communities that demonstrate leadership in reducing emissions, conserving resources, and promoting sustainability stand out in a competitive marketplace. By taking visible action, your community can position itself as a leader and show current and future residents that it is committed not only to quality living today but also to a healthier planet for tomorrow.

For more information, see:
Sustainable Design and Practices Attract Residents to this Life Plan Community