Advocacy

USGBC New York provides expert advice to state and local governments, institutions, public and private sector entities, and the general public. Our input is sought on major policies, legislative and regulatory initiatives, and executive orders. In 2007 we clearly demonstrated the success of these efforts, starting with New York City’s green building law (Local Law 86) coming into effect. This development alone will result in an estimated $12 billion in municipal construction being built to USGBC’s LEED standards over the next 10 years. In addition, on April 22, Earth Day 2007, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg released PlaNYC, a green blueprint for the city with an emphasis on buildings. Several current and former USGBC New York board members actively participated in the development of the Mayor’s plan.

But that’s just a sampling of what’s to come. USGBC New York is working with the New York City Mayor’s Office, Department of Buildings, and City Council to implement PlaNYC, and to help green the city’s building codes. Cities in Westchester and Rockland counties have also sought our assistance to develop green building programs.