By Dr. Tyra Oldham, LAND sds, ceo
I was just challenged on the greening of New Jersey and New York by some world travelers an those in sustainability. My response was that we cannot allow our eyes, smells and/or perception to dictate the effective or efficiencies of a nation, city or country toward implementing sustainability. The data (quantitative and/or qualitative) we derive is a better indicator of the answers.
"For many associations, “going green” can mean a number of things—from switching to energy-efficient light bulbs in common areas to installing solar panels to optimize the sun’s strength. As such, different communities place green practices and programming at different positions on their priority list. For the most part, the steps they take depend on funding, community interest, feasibility and other factors such as regulations."
The Cooperator: The Co-op & Condo Monthly" discussed in the article "Green Pioneers" the importance of green professionals and my topic of "feasibility".
Going green can be a maze or vegetative delight and despite your decision sustainable changes are aesthetically pleasing but may not be good decision-making. When going green the analysis must determine the first steps to sustainable future by developing a plan. Often, not an elaborate plan but steps to measure, validate an adopt efficiency changes as you act are critical. It is important to rely on a green consultant for aide.
As Allan Samuels, president of Energy Squared, points out,
"there are many opportunists that are “selling green,” but are not authorized to do so. “Since the economy experienced trouble, there have been many people who claim to be green professionals. Some of these people worked in retail or another job but now consider themselves to be green experts,” he says. “There are a lot of products that claim to save energy, associations and buyers have to be careful because there a lot of gimmicks out there. When some people say they are going green, they are simply referring to the color of money.”
"Leading the pack is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), which consists of a suite of rating systems for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings, homes and neighborhoods."
Yes, LEED is one alternative but do not be short sighted, LEED credentials does not indicate you understand the dynamics of environment, building and/or ecosystems to produce sustainability. Again, great is not a certification but a mastery.
"It’s important to note that there are levels to LEED certification. For example, a LEED Green Associate denotes basic knowledge and skill in practicing green design, operations and construction."
"Co-op and condominium boards are getting the message that green is not only good for the environment, it is also good for the balance sheet. “Particularly in New York City there is a lot of growing awareness about going green,” says Marc Zuluaga, P.E., vice president and director of Multifamily Energy Services for the New York-based energy consulting firm Steven Winter Associates. “Major benefits include reduced operating costs, mitigation of risks associated with energy commodity fluctuations, improved reliability of equipment, improved comfort and improved indoor air quality and resident quality of life.”
"While associations and boards might want to go green, the city is not giving all of them a chance, explains Zuluaga. New York City’s Greener, Greater Buildings Plan (GGBP) targets energy efficiency in large existing buildings. The GGBP was designed, in part, to ensure that information about energy is provided to decision-makers and that the most cost-effective energy efficiency measures are pursued. "
It is important to keep your mind and eyes open for efficiencies and those companies that can lead to operational effectiveness and last, artists. There are times for skill craft, engineers and artists in the field. Be aware of what you need and have an initial plan to start your inquiry. One may need a combination of all to get to a sustainable advantage. In the end sustainability and green must be enabled.