July 2009 news roundup
Historic Climate Change Bill Passes House
In a historic vote on June 26th, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES), which will have sweeping implications for energy and climate change initiatives. Key provisions in the bill include:
- Requirements for electric utilities to meet 20% of their electricity demand through renewable energy sources and energy efficiency by 2020.
- Investments in new clean energy technologies and energy efficiency.
- Mandate for new energy-saving standards for buildings and appliances, and promotion of energy efficiency in industry.
- Reduction of carbon emissions from major U.S. sources by 17% by 2020 and by over 80% by 2050 compared to 2005 levels.
- Protection of consumers from energy price increases.
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New Requirements for Recycling at NYC Street Events
The City Council recently passed a law requiring recycling at all street events.
Every event producer, manager, or sponsor must provide and monitor sufficient recycling receptacles for the duration of the event, gather all recyclables and arrange for their pick up.
Contact your Great Forest consultant if you would like more information about how this new law affects your business’ events or read more about the requirements here.
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Buildings Go Green To Save Money
A recent AP news report noted that older buildings, including the iconic Empire State Building, are increasingly turning green “…as property owners and managers become convinced that a greener building now makes financial sense.”
The article goes on to report that “environmental retrofits have begun to pay off for owners and tenants alike. Higher profile companies are seeking out more efficient office space, and new technology at older buildings has started to translate into higher property values, leases, and occupancy rates.”
“We’ve noticed that being green gives buildings that competitive edge,” says Anna Dengler, Great Forest’s Director of Sustainability.
“Some people think that upgrades are costly but they don’t realize that there are many inexpensive options that will allow them to reach the same LEED and Energy Star goals. Their investment pays off very quickly.”
Another recently released report, “Energy Efficiency Retrofits for Commercial and Public Buildings,” finds that “the total U.S. commercial building market, with 70-billion square-feet of space, delivers one of the largest opportunities for energy savings, reduction of carbon emissions and increased property value.