Posted: Nov, 03, 2025 10:26AM ET • 3 min read

Birds eye view of an eco-friendly parking lot.

Eco-friendly products and services are becoming increasingly important as we face the growing impacts of climate change. Parking facilities can play a role in sustainability by integrating eco-conscious features that help reduce environmental harm. From supporting electric vehicles (EVs) to adopting smart technology, here are four ways parking operators can contribute to a greener future, for both the environment and the community.

1. Electric Vehicle (EV) Support

Providing EV-friendly infrastructure can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of low-emission vehicles. EV charging stations not only serve current EV drivers but can also encourage others to make the switch. Incorporating these features can help your facility earn LEED certification and other green building credentials, reinforcing your commitment to sustainability and boosting your facility’s credibility.

2. Multimodal Transportation Support

Offering alternative transportation options— such as bike racks, scooter parking, pedestrian pathways, and access to public transit— encourages sustainable mobility. This is especially valuable in urban areas, where reducing car usage can ease traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. When these options are clearly accessible, they motivate your customers to choose greener modes of travel.

3. Smart Technology and Operations

Modern parking technologies, like mobile apps and sensors, streamline operations while minimizing environmental impact. Mobile apps enable users to locate, reserve, and pay for parking digitally, reducing paper use and emissions. License Plate Recognition (LPR) systems track vehicle entry and exit, improve space management, and reduce unnecessary driving and congestion within the facility.

4. Renewable Energy

Using clean energy sources like solar power helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Solar panels can generate power for lighting, EV chargers, and pay stations, making them especially beneficial for large facilities. Although the initial investment may be higher, solar energy offers a cost-effective and sustainable solution over time.

As climate concerns continue to grow, parking facility owners and operators have a vital opportunity to make a difference. By embracing sustainable practices, they can support environmental health while improving operations and community value.

References

Lereno, E. (2025). What is Mobility as a Service?. Parking Industry. Retrieved July 04, 2025, from

https://www.parkingindustry.ca/parking-101/what-is-mobility-as-a-service?rq=eco-friendly%20

Smart Cities, Greener Spaces: The Impact of Green Parking Lots. (n.d.). gtechna. Retrieved July 04, 2025, from

https://www.gtechna.com/blog/green-parking-lots