Green Building Resources

 


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On October 6, 2009 CIVITAS sponsored a panel discussion called "The Greening of Apartment Buildings" on eco-friendly building renovations for residents, co-op board members, and building managers.  As a follow-up to the event, we compiled a list of resources based on topics discussed, and recommendations from panelists and participants.

To suggest additional resources for this running list, or to participate in future events on green building email info@civitasnyc.org.

 

Tax Incentives and Government Resources

Visit the EnergyStar and Energy Tax Incentives websites for information on federal tax programs available to consumers, businesses, builders, and manufacturers who make energy efficient building improvements.

 

Energy

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA provides case-by-case energy-saving tips for varying New York residential building types.  The Green Residential Building Program provides incentives for owners of new and renovated residential buildings using green design and construction practices. 
 

CEE (Consortium for Energy Efficiency)
Recommendations, incentives, and educational resources about energy efficiency for lighting and electronics, cooling, heating and gas. 
 

Power Your Way
Information for making educated consumer decisions on alternative ESCOs (energy service companies), including a contact sheet for Green Power Providers for homes and businesses.

 

Building

U.S. Green Building Council
The USGBC's Green Home Guide provides an extensive resource for green building from guidelines for building methods, design, and product selection, to interactive tools to calculate your personal impact.

 

Materials

Green Depot
Green Depot is the nation's largest supplier of sustainable building products.


Using recycled materials on building projects reduces construction waste.  NYC organizations that buy or sell reusable building materials include: 

New York WasteMatch
This free materials exchange service is sponsored by the NYC Department of Sanitation. WasteMatch facilitates the exchange of unwanted, surplus, or used supplies, furniture, and equipment from businesses to entities in need of them. Materials are available for free or a low cost.

Build It Green! NYC
A non-profit building material reuse outlet open to the public. Accepts donations in excellent condition of kitchen cabinets, appliances no older than 4 years, doors, windows, flooring, bathroom fixtures, lumber, some lighting, plumbing fixtures, tile, radiators, new paint and other building materials.

ReBuilders Source
A discount retailer worker-owner cooperative accepting quality surplus, used building materials and appliances.

 

Water

Grey Water Action
Learn how to recycle grey water, the water from bathroom sinks, showers, tubs, and washing machines for landscape irrigation, as well as other tools and techniques to reduce home water waste.

EPA WaterSense
Look for water-efficient products labeled with WaterSense, a partnership program with the Environmental Protection Agency. 

 

Other New York City Resources

PlaNYC
PlaNYC's Greener, Greater Buildings Plan outlines a six-point plan to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings.

GreenHomeNYC
Educational resources for green building in NYC including a green building database, events listing, and in-person educational meetings for co-op or condo associations.

Solar One
A Green Energy, Arts, and Education Center advocates for environmental awareness through workshops and events.  Visit their website for a How-To video on solar investments for NYC commercial property owners.

 

Panel Participants

Environmental Defense Fund

Jamie Gibbs and Associates 

NYC Mayor's Office/PlaNYC 2030

SilverLining Interiors, Inc.

Steven Winter Associates

Host: Doyle New York