Announcing the Re-Launch of the NYC Benchmarking Help Center!

Dear Friends of the CUNY Building Performance Lab,

We are excited to announce the re-launch of the NYC Benchmarking Help Center, a partnership of the NYC Mayor's Office of Sustainability (MOS) and the CUNY Institute for Urban Systems Building Performance Lab (CUNY BPL).

As the first of its kind in the nation, the Benchmarking Help Center originally ran from 2011-2013 through a partnership with CUNY BPL, MOS, the NYC Dept. of Buildings, NYSERDA, and the Institute for Market Transformation. The Help Center supported property owners in complying with Local Law 84 of 2009 (LL84), a legislative mandate requiring all buildings larger than 50,000 square feet to annually submit energy and water benchmarking reports. In its first two years the Help Center received over 2,000 calls and helped New York City achieve an impressive 75% first-year compliance rate.  

The re-launched Help Center is a free, one-stop shop for LL84 information and assistance, with dedicated full-time staff supported by CUNY interns, located at the Building Energy Exchange (BEEx) in downtown Manhattan.  If building owners have questions about deadlines, whether or not a property is covered, how to gather energy and water data, or how to use the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager® tool, the Help Center is available to assist.

The NYC Benchmarking Help Center can be reached at:

EMAIL: questions@benchmarkinghelpcenter.org
PHONE: 212-566-LL84 (212-566-5584)
WEB: www.nyc.gov/ll84helpcenter

The Help Center also supports the  NYC Energy and Water Retrofit Accelerator, which assists property owners with conducting energy audits and retro-commissioning to comply with Local Law 87, and implementing energy and water upgrades in their buildings.  Together, these two programs are direct building-owner engagement efforts of the City's One City: Built to Last plan, which aims at reducing New York City's buildings-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 30 percent by 2025 through initiatives that address GHG emissions from the city's building stock - the largest source of citywide emissions.  One City: Built To Last is in turn one facet of the City's larger overall One New York: The Plan for a Strong and Just City plan for 2050, which envisions how New York City will achieve goals in growth, sustainability, resiliency, and equity.

The Impact of Benchmarking:

Benchmarking energy and water usage is a key element of the City's Greener, Greater Buildings Program (GGBP), and is valuable for improving a building's operations by providing a clear picture of overall energy and water usage. Furthermore, the aggregated public data allows owners and managers to compare their usage to other buildings, while year-over-year comparisons of the data can help identify and prioritize energy saving opportunities and track progress.

Benchmarking and Beyond:

The Help Center's expanded capacity will focus on improving the quality of LL84 report submissions, assisting property owners who have had difficulty complying in previous years, and smoothing the way for properties that may need to conduct benchmarking in the future or want to utilize benchmarking to undertake energy efficiency measures.

MCC Program: Urban Assembly School for Green Careers

www.uagreencareers.org

Student Work-based Learning Opportunities

The 2013-14 GreenLife Internship Wraps Up.

This spring semester, five 11th graders completed their 9-month long intership with GreenLife, a horticulture and job-readiness internship program funded by The Friends of Roosevelt Park. The students, Paloma Paredes Jacquez, Gail Irby, Jesica Perez, Jeferson Nunez and Mamethierno Faye, spent the summer and fall maintaining the green spaces and gardens of Theodore Roosevelt Park, at the American Museum of Natural History.

Through this internship, the students worked closely with Richard Squire, their direct supervisor. Under his leadership and guidance, they learned how to use a variety of gardening tools and equipment, such as weedwackers, lawnmowers and hand pruners, to maintain the gardens and grounds. The students unanimously agreed with Gail's reflection on Richard: "He was great. He worked with us and was there with us every day. He talked with us and worked to understand us."

According to Mamethierno and Gail, in addition to working with and learning from Richard, the highlight of this internship was the opportunity to work outdoors with their hands, to spend the day, in nice weather, working with people you know and like.

Beyond the immediate horticultural skills, students learned other "soft skills" necessary for success in workplace. As stated by Paloma, the students learned "how to work with people." Jeferson and Gail both expanded upon that: Jeferson stating that the internship helped to improve their communication skills as they frequently had to be able to "correctly answer the people walking through the gardens and park who'd ask them about the flowers and plants with which they were working." "We learned even more about the importance of following directions and meeting expectations," said Gail, "even when you don't like the work. ...You're not always going to enjoy everything about your work, or the people you work with, and so you have to learn how to be happy with it and get it done."

The Spring 2015 Scholars-at-Work Program is Underway

Beginning in February 2015, seven of our seniors with advanced standing, Saul Robles, Naod Alemayhu, Mariama Barry, Anastasia Foxe, Yeltsin Morales and Aissatou Ndiye, were successfully accepted into the Department of Education's competative Scholars at Work program. Scholars at Work, a joint initiative begun by the New York City Department of Education, the New York City Department of Small Business Services, and the New York City Workforce Investment Board, began in 2010 to provide increased options and opportunities for New Yorkers graduating from the City's career and technical education (CTE) high schools (of which, UAGC is one). During the 14-week paid internship, participating students not only receive career training and experiences at their worksites, but they also take part in job-readiness workshops and recruitment events provided by the City's Workforce 1 career centers.

Our students, Saul Robles, Naod Alemayhu, Mariama Barry, Anastasia Foxe, Yeltsin Morales and Aissatou Ndiye, are working at The MTA's Rapid Transit Operations, Charan Electrical Enterprises, Skyline Sightseeing, Hells Kitchen Bath and Home, Super Shuttle at the Hilton Hotel, and at Panorama Windows respectively.

In terms of direct connections to the green careers, Aissatou, working at Panorama Windows, is learning about, and watching, the manufacturing of low-e (low-emissivity) windows, for "all types of buildings," residential and commerical. Naod, at Charan Electrical, who is planning on majoring in electrical engineering next year in college, is building on his knowledge base of circuitry from his prior Electrial courses, and is learning about new types of conduits and wall recepticals, and how to insulate around them to seal off air leaks for the improved energy performance of walls. Anastastaisa, at Hells Kitchen Bath and Home, is working directly with her supervisor to design blueprints for their clients' home renovations, is learning "the different types of wood for cabinetry so [she] can make [home improvement] recommendations."

Indirectly related to UAGC's sustainability theme, Saul, at the MTA's Rapid Transit Operations, does one thing at his job: "I help try to keep the trains working on time without delay. I monitor mileage units. After a certain amount of miles, they're (train cars) taken in to ensure they continue to work properly. I study and manage a lot of data tables – typing in numbers for other people to make recommendations for trains to service. It's a lot of responsibility, but I like that."

Beyond making connections between our school's theme and mission, this experience is also providing our students with the "soft skills" required for success in both college and the workplace. At Hells Kitchen Bath and Home, Anastasia is learning that "it's all about accuracy. If you get one detail or calculation wrong, the entire plan will be thrown off and ruined. You need to be precise. One of our clients is redesigning his kitchen--because of the way his building was constructed, there are corners that are hard to work within. We had to decrease the size of the cabinet he’s putting in so that he can get what wants in the space he’s got...and we had to convince him that that's what was best." Anastasia is also learning, as an intern, the delicate workplace art of managing up: "I always feel like I’m trying to teach them to be organized with their clients, and organizing their clients' plans and [blue] prints." For Yeltsin, interning with Super Shuttle, the art of the sale is his prime learning task. Through his job, he's "learning a lot of people skills--how to communicate, listen and persuade. I'm like a salesman; I have to convice people (the various hotel concierges and guests) that they need what I’m selling/representing. I really like talking with people so this isn't a challenge for me." Mariama and Aissatou, at Skyline Sightseeing and Panorama Windows, also acknowledged that they're learning the importance of communication with their clients and customers. Mariama has to "help customers figure out how to plan their trips--where to buy tickets for events, where to board [tour] busses...I need to know a lot about the City...and, no matter what, even if they're wrong, the customer is always right. They make the company--so they have to be put first." At Panorama Windows, Aissatou "[talks] to new people on the phone--listening to what they want so that I can tell them about what we can provide, and how to achieve what they want for their homes in terms of increased sustainability" and decreased energy costs.

How do these students plan to use their experiences to guide their future career paths?

Naod: I'm hoping that they offer me a summer job. I want to study electrical engineering in college, and want to be an electrician while I’m fulltime in college. I want to learn about and know how to install new devices. I want to learn everything I can about electrical systems.

Yeltsin: I think the communication skills will really help me with job interviews in the future. If I become an artist, then I can use my communication skills through my art to get out messages.

Aissatou: I think this will help me get future jobs--I'm able to expand my resume and get job training skills. When I'm older, looking for a job, I've already got some experience in the business world. I could get a job working in an office as an office manager.

Saul: I still don’t know what I want to do in life, and am hoping that this internship will help me figure out what I want to do. I like a lot of responsibility, and would prefer office work to hands-on.

Mariama: [A counterpoint to Saul] I'm learning that I do not want to work in an office. Last summer, I also worked in an office--and it was really boring.

Anastasia: My line of work is somewhat aligned to what I want to do--I want to work in.

Progressive Computing and Clancy Relocation & Logistics to Sponsor E-Waste Program at the 2015 Westchester Business Expo

White Plains/Rye Brook, NY (March 12, 2015) Progressive Computing, Inc. (PCI) and Clancy Relocation & Logistics are teaming up with The Business Council of Westchester (BCW) and the Westchester Green Business Challenge to head an E-Waste Initiative as a part of this year's Westchester Business Expo.

In December of 2014, with guidance from Progressive Computing, the Business Council of Westchester collected all of their old computers and Clancy Relocation & Logistics, a client of PCI and member of the BCW, came and hauled the equipment away to process for recycling. In doing this, the BCW became invested in better understanding the effects of improperly disposing of e-waste and decided to make it their mission to share this knowledge with the business community.

One of the things the Business Council noticed while working with PCI and Clancy was how surprisingly seamless the process was. So at this year's Business Expo, they want to make it even easier for businesses to get on board. Not only will the BCW be spreading the word on the appropriate disposal of e-waste, but a dedicated e-waste truck will also be on-site to collect any and all unwanted small to mid-sized electronic office equipment.

"Disposing of e-waste will be easier than ever and the Business Council of Westchester and the Expo Committee is proud to bring our members and the community this amazing opportunity," said Allison Calvert of the BCW.

The Business Council's involvement with the Westchester Green Business Challenge in recent years has acted as a catalyst in bringing this e-waste initiative to the forefront. The goal of the WGBC is to help Westchester businesses become more environmentally-friendly through their green certification program. Companies in the WGB-Certified program are required to properly dispose of their e-waste in order to become certified. They recently gained the support of New York state government with a grant of $540,000 to expand the program over the next three years.

In recent years, more businesses have begun properly disposing of e-waste and there has been a greater awareness about what should and should not be thrown in the trash, especially when it comes to office equipment. Part of this awareness comes from the fact that companies want to ensure the appropriate elimination of the sensitive data that their computers may contain. Since 2009, the WGBC has helped raise awareness in the Westchester business community about what it really means to "go green" and has provided practical solutions to allow this to happen on a larger scale.

In 2014, 283 Westchester businesses completed a scorecard which included a section on the proper disposal of e-waste and some larger companies have already taken action by contracting with e-waste removal services and allowing employees to bring in any home or office e-waste they may have accumulated for proper disposal a couple of times per year. As a result, they've educated their staff about the importance of proper e-waste disposal, however not all small businesses have been able to make this a priority.

"One of the challenges of e-waste disposal for the small to medium-sized business is the cost of arranging an affordable pick up service," said Dani Glaser, CEO of Green Team Spirit, which runs the WGBC. "While it can be free to dispose of e-waste when you bring it to the drop-off site, it can be expensive to arrange a pick-up. One suggestion is for them to share the cost with fellow tenants in an office building, for example."

Progressive Computing, as a small business of Westchester, understands the problems with e-waste that many others are facing all too well. At first, the issue sparked their curiosity but soon enough, it became a personal passion of theirs.

"It's the dirty little secret in nearly every small business," Robert Cioffi, CEO of Progressive Computing says. "Most small businesses simply don’t have the means to properly dispose of their old electronics or the task is just too cumbersome...Eventually, we reach a breaking point and the disposal is not always performed in an environmentally friendly or secure way."

After studying the problem for years, they recognized what they considered to be two very large dangers. The first was the potential risk of leaking corporate data. The second was that most are unaware the ecological dangers of improper disposal of e-waste. Using what they've learned, they hope to address these problems on a broader scale and encourage the rest of the small-to-medium sized business community to do the same.

"We only work with vendors who are eStewards or R2 certified. These certifications are rigorous international standards that regulate the processing and disposal of electronics in an environmentally safe manner and also adhere to high standards that meet or exceed regulatory compliance such as HIPAA, PCI and SOX," said Cioffi. "Our clients are thrilled that we are beginning to offer reasonable, economical and viable options for doing the right thing."

Clancy Relocation & Logistics, a client of Progressive Computing, has played an integral role in moving their e-waste initiative along. In 2003, Clancy started picking up office equipment from larger customers who already had their own solution in place. In 2007, they began working with and providing transportation to Geodis Wilson, a freight management company that already had an effective e-waste plan in place. This inspired Clancy to figure out a better way to help their own customers solve the problem. After working with Geodis, Clancy developed their own system and today, they handle roughly 4.5 million pounds of e-waste each year.

"We bring e-waste to Geodis in Endicott, NY. There, they completely reverse engineer the e-waste. Components and raw materials are separated," explained Senior Vice President of Clancy Relocation & Logistics, Jim Carey. "They have taken a very bold approach in their method for handling e-waste because their methods require more work. But in the end, over 99% of the e-waste stays out of landfills."

There are many moving parts to putting into place and maintaining an e-waste solution, but the proper education and assistance is out there and that begins with the 2015 Westchester Business Expo. It's particularly important for more businesses to get on board with this initiative now, because as of January 1, it is illegal to throw anything that could be considered e-waste in the trash throughout the state of New York. This mean computers, televisions, game consoles and other electronic equipment and those in violation can be fined $100. The Business Council of Westchester wants the community to know how simple it can be to properly dispose of e-waste and wants to get people and businesses involved in the action.

"We encourage businesses of all sizes to follow set guidelines and procedures when disposing of important office technology so it does not negatively impact the environment," said John Ravitz, Executive Vice President of the BCW. "We all have a personal and professional commitment to protect our environment for generations to come."

The 2015 Westchester Business Expo will be held at the Hilton Westchester on March 18, from 1pm to 5pm. For more information, visit http://wbxpo.com/.

Business Council of Westchester
Contact: (914) 694-3919
www.westchesterny.org



Westchester Green Business Challenge
Contact: westchestergbc@gmail.com
www.westchestergreenbusinesschallenge.org


Progressive Computing
(914) 375-3009
www.progressivecomputing.com


Clancy Relocation & Logistics
(914) 712-6837
http://www.clancymoving.com

Con Edison To Large Customers: Don't Let This Offer Go Cold

NEW YORK – Winter’s chill has gripped the region, but Con Edison’s Green Team is urging managers of large commercial buildings to sign up for lucrative incentives from the company’s summer demand response programs.

The utility is inviting commercial customers that promise to reduce their electrical usage when temperatures soar and demand for electricity is high. The enrollment deadline is April 1 to start participating in May. The enrollment deadline is May 1 to start participating in June.

For every megawatt of reduction that a customer or aggregator of buildings provides, Con Edison will pay up to $500,000 over three years. That reward would be on top of the money the customer would save by lowering their electrical use.

“By participating in Con Edison’s demand response programs, managers of 800 buildings have made the smart choice to generate revenue while saving on their bills and helping to ensure that electric service is reliable in their communities,” said Rebecca Craft, director of Energy Efficiency and Demand Management programs at Con Edison. “It’s important for building managers who are interested to contact us soon so that we can set them up for the summer of 2015.”

Con Edison offers two demand response programs. In one, the company will notify the customer that buildings should conserve starting in two hours or less. In the other, the company will provide notification 21 hours in advance. In most cases, customers can participate in both programs simultaneously.

Half of the buildings in the program are office buildings. Retail buildings are next at 9 percent, followed by health-care facilities at 7 percent, and educational facilities at 6 percent. Industrial buildings, hotels, residential properties and houses of worship also participate.

A building must have an interval meter – which measures electricity usage every 15 minutes – to participate. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority will provide a $1,500 rebate to building managers installing interval meters.

Con Edison also offers incentives of $800 per kilowatt up to 75 percent of the cost, for measures such as generators or software. To qualify, a building must enroll in the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) Installed Capacity Special Case Resources Program. Most buildings are eligible to participate simultaneously in the NYISO and Con Edison demand response programs.

For more information on our Demand Response programs, go here or call the Green Team at 1-877-870-6118.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $12 billion in annual revenues and $41 billion in assets. The utility provides electric, gas and steam service to more than 3 million customers in New York City and Westchester County, New York.

The Con Edison Green Team has an Energy Efficiency program for everyone. To find programs that are right for you, visit www.conEd.com/greenteam or call the Green Team

Special Event on December 2nd: Sustainability in the Hospitality Industry: A Global Perspective "Food, Operations, Work Culture, and Community"

Sustainability in the Hospitality Industry: A Global Perspective

"Food, Operations, Work Culture, and Community"

Hosted at the

NYIT Auditorium on Broadway

1871 Broadway, New York, NY 10023

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

On Tuesday, December 2nd from 8:00am-4:00pm a conference will be held at the New York Institute of Technology hosted by the Global Center for Hospitality Management, the New York State Restaurant Association & Green Hospitality Initiative. The conference will be on “Sustainability in the Hospitality Industry: A Global Perspective.” This conference will bring together leaders from all aspects of the hospitality industry to discuss and share their expertise regarding sustainability in hospitality organizations and related industries. The sustainability issues that will be addressed will pertain to: Food, Operations, Work Culture and Community.

The day's events will include: continental breakfast and lunch networking session; guest speaker presentations; short films; "green flash" presentations on current trends in sustainability. Below are a few of the many knowledgeable speakers that will be attending the conference:

• Dr. Rahmat Shoureshi, Provost and VP for Academic Affairs, New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
• James Versocki, ESQ., Archer, Byington, Glennon & Levine, LLP 
• Sadri Altinok, President, Turkish Cultural Centers
• Dr. Robert J. Koenig, Associate Dean and Professor of the School of Management and Department of Hospitality Studies, New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
• Alan Someck, Director, Green Hospitality Initiative
• Alan Fairbairn, M.A./C.H.A./C.H.I.A.
  Professor of the School of Management and Department of Hospitality Studies, New York Institute of Technology(NYIT)
• Laura Bucko, VP/Director of Communications, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce 
• Alex Askew, President and CEO, BCA Global
• Karen Washington, Co Founder at Black Urban Growers and La Familia Verde
• Hervé Houdré, Regional Director of Operations & General Manager InterContinental New York Barclay
• Vlada Kenniff, Managing Director, Planning, Projections, and Demand Management
• Kyle Thomas, Sustainability Manager, Le Pain Quotidien
• Adanna Roberts, Program Manager, NYC WasteMatch
• Liz Williams, President and Director, Southern Food and Beverage Museum
• Maya Shenkman, Director of Hotel Services, Great Forest Inc.
• Magdalene Sim, Director of Communications, Great Forest Inc.
• Steve Sasso, General Manager, The Benjamin in New York
• Naomi Mirsky, Vice-President, Sustainability and Innovation at Denihan Hospitality Group (Denihan)
• Bill Telepan, Chef/Owner of Telepan & Telepan Local
• William Patrick Cornelius, Chef William Creations
• Euripides Pelekanos, Founder & CEO, Bareburger
• Margaret Stapleton, National University Development Manager, Entertainment Cruises, Inc. 
• Rob Salvatico, Partner and Senior Vice President, Operations of Jaral Properties, Inc. and Jaral Management Corp.
• Alan Mindel, Operating Partner, Samar Hospitality
• Joel Grassi, Pest Management professional, BHB Pest Elimination and many others...

Admission to the conference: $25.00

For a more comprehensive list of speakers and more details on the conference, click here: http://jennarusss.wix.com/hospitalitygreenconf

World to NYC - Smart & Sustainable Cities Global Challenge

The NYC Economic Development Corporation in partnership with New York International has opened applications for the fall 2014 World to NYC program, which has a focus on smart and sustainable cities.

Emerging companies from the US and abroad are eligible to participate in the program, which runs from September 29 to October 1, 2014. The application period is open now through August 22.

World to NYC will provide knowledge exchange and collaboration between cutting-edge companies already present in the city and those considering New York City for their US / East-coast expansion.

Over three days, participants will have the opportunity to meet leaders of large corporations, tech entrepreneurs, investors, lawyers who specialize in business incorporation and immigration issues, NYC government officials, and other expats who have expanded their businesses to NYC, among many others. Delegates will also take tours of workspaces and incubators, prominent NYC companies, and different tech neighborhoods in NYC.

Through this program, NYC is setting the stage for urban efficiency, sustainability, and innovation --inviting the most promising startup companies from around the world to present their solutions in the context of continuous urbanization and its economic opportunities for New York City’s citizens, businesses, and partners.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for digitally-enabled technologies (including software, hardware, and connected devices) that make cities more intelligent, efficient, and resilient by optimizing use of energy, resources and the built environment. While we welcome interest from any company focusing on the application of technology to urban sustainability, the following sectors are of particular interest:

• mobility & transportation
• energy, including clean generation, smart grid, and efficiency
• intelligent infrastructure

What will the program include?

The 3- day program will include:

• networking opportunities
• introductions to potential business partners
• information useful to companies expanding into New York City
• other events. 

The program runs Monday-Wednesday (September 29th – October 1st), allowing sufficient time on Thursday and Friday for participating companies to schedule their own business meetings in the city.

The program is free of charge and participants are responsible for their own airfare, hotels, etc.

You can find more information at: http://worldtonyc.com including a link to the on-line application.

News from MCC Partner New York Grant Company

Spring into Action!    Starting next month, New York businesses will be able to take advantage of Governor Cuomo's next round of economic incentives.

Over $700 million will be available through a competitive application process.   Awards will include: capital grants for major projects meeting a region's economic goals tax credits for up to 10 years for qualified businesses creating jobs or making significant investments in their space or machinery energy benefits grants to alleviate stormwater runoff (eg, for green roofs, bioswales) grants for businesses to train employees. If you or anybody you know might be considering making improvements to a business in New York State by hiring, investing, expanding, or training, please give us a call at 212-227-8283. We have the best track record of anyone in the State for obtaining these benefits.   We understand the funding pools, the process, and the compliance steps necessary to get every dollar on the table.  The initial consultation to determine if you qualify is always free of charge. GO NEW YORK!  GROW New York business! Sincerely, Ann Kayman and the New York Grant Company Team

MCC Green Business Committee: Upcoming Events

MCC Events:

March 26th: MCC Green Quarterly Networking Event: 8:30-10 AM: Come network with peers, discuss and gain ideas at our Green Quarterly Networking Meeting. Free for MCC members, $15 for non-members.
Speakers:

Jennifer Podoll, American Cancer Society.
Nadine Cino, Tyga-Box Systems, Inc.
Mark Drozdov, Creative Environment Solutions (CES) Corp.
Susan Mazonson, Viridian.
Nathaniel Doyno, Con Edison.

SOLD OUT! April 3rd: MCC’s Green Design & Construction Committee Empire State Building Tours - Skanska’s LEED Platinum Offices MCC will be hosting tours of green buildings throughout the year. Let us know if you are interested in the program or would like to host a tour of a project you are working on.

April 18: MCC Green Finance sub-committee meeting: This group now meets quarterly. Please join us for a presentation by Thomas J. Grech, Breakwater Ventures and informal discussion.

Co-sponsored events:

March 19-20: Buildings New York: BuildingsNY provides building owners and managers with the products & services they require to make decisions, make deals, issue RFPs and ultimately save money. Building Owners/Managers will have the opportunity to source products & services they need for all phases of their buildings' lifecycle. At BuildingsNY, you'll find the best deals and steals on products and services for any kind of property: Commercial, Residential, Industrial, Institutional/ Healthcare, Hotel/ Motel and Retail. Already planning on attending? Let us know if you’d like to volunteer at the MCC booth!

March 31st: The Wall Street Green Summit XIII: The Wall Street Green Summit XIII, the granddaddy of green finance conferences, delivers the latest thought and practical actions to achieve sustainability through finance. This event is chock full of the up-to-date and innovative information on sustainable finance you have come to expect here and no place else.

April 26-27th: Green Festival, Pier 94: New York City Green Festival launches its third year April 26-27 at a new venue, Pier 94! At Green Festival®, there is something for everyone interested in living a more sustainable and healthier life. Experience the widest selection of products and services to work green, play green and live green – from food, fashion and health, to energy, construction and design. Enjoy vegan and vegetarian cooking demos, educational activities for kids and families, panels featuring inspirational speakers, and live music and entertainment. Shop in our unique marketplace of more than 300 eco-friendly businesses - everything from all-natural body care products and organic clothing to Fair Trade gifts, beautiful home renovations made from renewable resources, plus vegan and vegetarian offerings based on organic, non-GMO or local, artisanal foods.

We thank Con Edison’s Green Team for sponsoring the MCC Green Business Committee!

Funding for the MCC Green Business Committee is through both the Con Edison Commercial & Industrial Energy Efficiency Program and the Con Edison Small Business Direct Install Program. Con Edison’s Green Team can help your business get energy fit with incentives to upgrade your lighting, and heating and cooling systems. Contact the Green Team at (877) 870-6118 or visit www.conEd.com/greenteam.

The Empire State Building: A Tribute

MCC’s Green Design and Construction sub-committee recently toured the Empire State Building to learn about their sustainability initiatives. One of our attendees, Victoria Drozdov of Creative Environment Solutions (CES) Corp., wrote a poetic response which depicts the work done by artisans and engineers to restore this iconic NYC building. We hope you enjoy!

Empire

Rebuilt for all to see.

Majestic, significant, a spectacle.

We listen and gather bits and pieces of history.

The ceiling set just under the prior ruined one with

thin layers of silver plate and even thinner gold plate

dissolving into the air if not properly applied by the artisans.

Gears, stars, referencing the industrial age and

echoing heavens above, at forty feet over our heads.

Lights dimmed at daybreak allowing

passersby, if they look up, and it is hard to resist, to

absorb the full brilliance of the marble,

cut just so that no seam is seen, only the continuous wave of its veins.

The guide’s mesmerizing words bring to life the transformation.

He leads us on through the exhibit as we marvel at each step taken to

rebuild the old monument to its current modern state.

We travel through corridor and elevator arteries,

Admiring its glory, inside and out,

From high corner suites to the underground belly of the structure.

Before leaving, I look around one last time.

With intricate details planned in ambitious goals

through shared dreams and common needs

something deteriorating became once again alive.

by Victoria S. Drozdov

Credit: Published by permission of the author. All rights are retained by the author.

MCC Partner News: MCC partner E3Think is the is the economic, strategy and planning partner for the Hoboken, Jersey City and Weehawken bike share program. MCC and E3Think partnered on a Transportation Transformation Conference in 2011 as part of the MCC Green Business Committee programming.

HOBOKEN, JERSEY CITY & WEEHAWKEN TO LAUNCH REGIONAL BIKE SHARE SYSTEM

800 Smart Bikes Will Form Largest Next-Generation Bike Share System in North America

 The cities of Hoboken, Jersey City and Weehawken are partnering to launch a regional bike share system in the summer of 2014 that will be the largest next-generation bike share system in North America. The system will feature 800 smart-bikes, 50 bike stations, and 2 full-service pavilions at no cost to the cities.

“Bike sharing is an affordable, sustainable, and convenient transportation option,” said Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer. “We are excited to partner with leading innovators to bring this next-generation system to our residents, businesses and visitors at no cost to taxpayers. I am proud to build upon our successful pilot bike share program and work with our neighbors in Jersey City and Weehawken to create a regional system.”

Jersey City Mayor Steven M. Fulop was equally enthusiastic: “We’re proud to take this step toward a greener, more bike friendly Jersey City. Providing a new transportation option throughout the city while simultaneously reducing pollution, traffic congestion and demand for parking is a home run, especially given that that it won’t cost the taxpayers a cent. We believe this system will be a model for others throughout the nation.”

“We are very excited to participate in the bike share program with Hoboken and Jersey City,” said Weehawken Councilwoman Rosemary Lavagnino. “This program will allow residents to leave their cars at home while still giving them access to Weehawken and their neighboring communities.”

The program will be operated by Bike and Roll, the largest bike rental company in the United States, and will use bicycle technology manufactured by Nextbike, a leading operator and supplier of bike sharing systems with over 17,000 bicycles in 60 cities in 14 countries. E3Think is the economic, strategy and planning partner for the consortium, and investment capital will be provided by P3 Global Management, a smart city investment firm.

“Bike and Roll is excited to have been selected to operate this cutting edge bicycle sharing system for Hoboken, Jersey City and Weehawken,” said Chris Wogas, President of Bike and Roll. “Together with our partners, we are bringing a technologically advanced network of bikes to these cities with zero cost to taxpayers. This is truly a value added program for the cities, its residents and visitors.”

The system will feature “smart bikes,” the next generation of bike share technology. Traditional bike sharing systems rely on a “smart dock” approach for storing bicycles, which requires expensive infrastructure for docking stations. The “smart lock” approach relies on bicycles with built-in locks and communications equipment, providing increased flexibility at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems.

“The time is right to introduce an economic and flexible bike sharing program made in Germany to the USA,” said Ralf Kalupner, founder and managing director of nextbike GmbH. “Bike sharing needs to be economic and that’s what we have proven for the last 10 years.”

The Nextbike Cruiser Comfort bike features a 7-gear shift, puncture-resistant tires, integrated LED lights with stand-light function, hub dynamo, kickstand, basket, bell, mudguard, chain guard, hand and coaster brakes, and height-adjustable seat.

“Bike share is the core of new urban mobility for cities around the world,” said Tom Glendening, President of E3Think. “In contrast to the expensive technology in some markets, Nextbike's low cost, flexible smart-bike technology offers a very, very positive future. This bike share program could very well be a model for cities across the globe.”

Revenue sources for the program will include sponsorships, advertising, and user fees, and the cities will receive a percentage of profits after capital expenditures have been recouped.

“We see bike share programs as a cornerstone of economically and socially healthy cities,” said Jim Campbell, CEO of P3GM. “We are thrilled to have been selected by Jersey City, Hoboken and Weehawken to bring this enormous benefit to their citizens, tourists and students alike.”

Pricing options will include annual, weekly and daily memberships. Annual memberships will include free use for the first 45 minutes of each ride. Customers will be able to register online or at solar-powered kiosks. Members will be able to rent a bicycle via a customer card, mobile application (iOS and Android) or phone call via an interactive voice response system.

The two full-service pavilions, to be located in Hoboken and Jersey City, will include a bike share station, conventional bike rental, helmets and safety support, biking equipment, and tourist information.

The contract award requires the approval of the Councils of the three cities.

MCC Partner ConEdison Announces January Updates: Save the Date! 4th Annual Contractor Awards Ceremony

  

Save the date for Con Edison's 4th Annual Contractor Awards Ceremony, being held March 11, 2014, at the Marriott LaGuardia Hotel in East Elmhurst, NY. Join other contractors that promote energy efficient programs and watch your mailboxes for your official invite. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast while celebrating your accomplishments in 2013. We'll also be raffling off prizes, including a 42” flat screen TV! For more information, contact Alicia Louisa at 516-784-1666.

IMPORTANT PROGRAM CHANGES

- Please note: Electric Air Sealing and Indirect Hot Water Heater rebates have been discontinued since September 1, 2013.

- The Home Energy Survey Program has been discontinued, effective June 27, 2013. Please contact the Green Team at 800-430-9505 should you have any questions or concerns.

- New customer kits will be provided to all customers who complete an HVAC Electric or Gas rebate program. The free electric kits include 3 CFL light bulbs, and the free gas kits include a low-flow shower head and a faucet aerator as a thank you for participating.

- The Appliance Recycling program will be undergoing a few changes shortly, including the addition of primary refrigerators to the program.

- Starting this spring: Con Edison will offer rebates for the purchase of qualifying CEE refrigerators and Energy Star dehumidifiers that can save your customers energy and money.

For more information on program details, visit http://www.conedhvacrebates.com

ATTENTION HEATING CONTRACTORS

Friendly reminder to offer your customers energy efficient options so they can benefit from Con Edison's gas rebates. Also, please remind your installers to affix serial number stickers of certain manufacturers on all equipment where applicable. Customers selected for a quality assurance inspection will have a more difficult path to receiving a rebate without the CP sticker on the equipment due to the missing information.

GET LISTED ON OUR PROGRAM WEBSITE

Are you listed under our "Find a Contractor" link? Being listed provides added visibility to a wider base of customers looking for ways to improve their homes and make them more energy efficient. There's only a few requirements to take advantage of this free outreach:

- You must have successfully installed Prescriptive Measures in the past. 

- Have submitted applications for incentives on at least four (4) occasions within a twelve (12) month period.

- Your installation work must have been inspected by the IC on at least four (4) occasions.

Please contact the Green Team at 800-430-9505 should you have any questions about being listed on the site.

APPLYING FOR REBATES IS EASY

When submitting the rebate be sure to include an invoice that lists the following:

- Install date

- Contractor name and address

- Customer name and address

- Model and serial number of all equipment installed*

- Notation that equipment is paid in full

Also provide your customers with the AHRI certification number or a copy of the manufacturer's specification sheet.

*Programmable thermostat serial numbers not required.


REFERENCE LINKS:
The News: Check out the weekly edition of this HVAC Industry Newsletter

HVAC Insider: Get the latest updates in HVAC industry news

Consult Air: Services that specialize in Manual J Load Calculations

MCC Green Business of the Year Awardee Ecologic Solutions raises $1.75M

By Brady Dale / CONTRIBUTOR

EcoLogic Solutions raised $1.75 million on an offered $2 million equity round,according to an SEC filing. The company makes more ecologically friendly cleaning products and offers green custodial consulting to companies.

Read more here: http://technical.ly/brooklyn/2014/01/22/122-startup-roundup/

Con Edison December Updates

DECEMBER Updates 

ATTENTION HEATING CONTRACTORS
Friendly reminder to offer your customers energy efficient options so they can benefit from Con Edison's gas rebates. Also, please remind your installers to affix serial number stickers of certain manufacturers on all equipment where applicable. Customers selected for a quality assurance inspection will have a more difficult path to receiving a rebate without the CP sticker on the equipment due to the missing information.

GET LISTED ON OUR PROGRAM WEBSITE
Are you listed under our "Find a Contractor" link? Being listed provides added visibility to a wider base of customers looking for ways to improve their homes and make them more energy efficient. There's only a few requirements to take advantage of this free outreach:

- You must have successfully installed Prescriptive Measures in the past;

- Have submitted applications for incentives on at least four (4) occassions within a twelve (12) month period; and

- Your installation work must have been inspected by the IC on at least four (4) occasions.

Please contact the Green Team at 800-430-9505 should you have any questions about being listed on the site.

APPLYING FOR REBATES IS EASY
When submitting the rebate be sure to include an invoice that lists the following:
- Install date

- Contractor name and address

- Customer name and address

- Model and serial number of all equipment installed*

- Notation that equipment is paid in full

Also provide your customers with the AHRI certification number or a copy of the manufacturer's specification sheet.



*Programmable thermostat serial numbers not required.

IMPORTANT PROGRAM CHANGES
- Please note: Electric Air Sealing and Indirect Hot Water Heater rebates have been discontinued since September 1, 2013;

- The Home Energy Survey Program has been discontinued, effective June 27, 2013. Please contact the Green Team at 800-430-9505 should you have any questions or concerns;

- New customer kits will be provided to all customers who complete an HVAC Electric or Gas rebate program. The free electric kits include 3 CFL light bulbs, and the free gas kits include a low-flow shower head and a faucet aerator as a thank you for participating;

- The Appliance Recycling program will be undergoing a few changes shortly, including the addition of primary refrigerators to the program;

- Starting this fall: Con Edison will offer rebates for the purchase of qualifying CEE refrigerators and Energy Star dehumidifiers that can save your customers energy and money;

For more information on program details, visit http://www.conedhvacrebates.com

TD Bank: Where Going Green Is Going Viral

TD Bank's successful environmental employee engagement program features five lessons for companies and individuals looking to integrate sustainability into their workforce culture and processes.

In 2012, TD Bank launched its ambitious Environmental Employee Engagement (EEE) Program to bring sustainability into its business practices and workforce culture.

At Net Impact, we believe that one of the best ways to learn is from experience – which is why we

partnered with GreenBiz Group to investigate key insights from TD Bank’s experience.

Read More Here: https://netimpact.org/learning-resources/publications-guides/td-bank-where-going-green-is-going-viral

NYC spending $500 million in 2013 fleet renewal

FLUSHING MEADOWS PARK, NY. The City of New York is investing half a billion dollars in its municipal fleet this year, much of it focused on continuing efforts to create “the greenest fleet in the country,” according to Keith Kerman, deputy commissioner and chief fleet management officer.

Representing a major renewal of the city’s Fire, Police and Sanitation Department fleets, the 2013 buy will include 1,000 hybrid and electric vehicles, Kerman told Fleet Owner. “For example, we will have replaced every gasoline [powered] sedan in the Dept. of Sanitation with a hybrid or EV within the next two months,” he said. “They have 500 sedans.”

The new equipment will also include 20 CNG-powered heavy-duty trucks for refuse collection and other sanitation applications, and CNG-powered cargo vans from GMC for park maintenance and other chores, as well as 60 plug-in EVs from Ford and Nissan.

Other green-fleet initiatives already undertaken by New York’s municipal fleet operations include a citywide mandate that all diesel-powered trucks – including emergency equipment such as fire trucks – run on B5 biodiesel, with non-emergency vehicles switching to B20 from April to November. The city has also embarked on a retrofit program for diesel particulate filters (DPFs) for older trucks and completed work on threenatural gas fueling facilities, one solely dedicated to heavy trucks run by the Sanitation department.

Kerman was speaking at the 25th annual fleet show hosted by the N.Y.C. Parks Dept. in the old World’s Fair Grounds. The Parks’ fleet operations, which were once headed by Kerman, holds the show every spring to introduce other city agencies and nearby municipal fleets to new truck technology, much of it focused on clean diesel and alternative fuels.

New this year at the show was a ceremony announcing the first “certified” fleets under a new Empire Green Fleets program sponsored by the area’s local Clean Cities organization, Empire Clean Cities. The group analyzes equipment and fuel-use data from fleets seeking the certification, focusing on reductions in petroleum use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, according to Christina Ficicchia, executive dir.

Read Full Article Here:http://fleetowner.com/news/nyc-spending-500-million-2013-fleet-renewal

Con Edison Green Team: June Updates

TEMPERATURES RISING

As the summer temperatures rise, many of your customers are seeking ways to beat the heat and save money in the process. Provide added value by educating them about the benefits of upgrading to a high-efficiency central air-conditioning unit this summer through Con Edison's Heating and Cooling Rebates for Homes program.

The program helps you to grow your business by saving your customers both money and energy, enhancing the reliability of their equipment as well. According to energystar.gov, with proper sizing and installation, a customer can save up to 30% in annual energy costs by upgrading their equipment. To learn more about this program or sign up, click here.

________________________________________

APPLYING FOR REBATES IS EASY

When submitting the rebate be sure to include an invoice that lists the following:

- Install date
- Contractor name and address
- Customer name and address
- Model and serial number of all equipment installed*
- Notation that equipment is paid in full

Also provide your customers with the AHRI certification number or a copy of the manufacturer's specification sheet.

*Programmable thermostat serial numbers not required.
________________________________________

JOIN US

The Con Edison Green Team will be available at various distributor locations. Stop by to pick up rebate forms and brochures, as well as get answers to questions that you may have about the program.

Also, SAVE THE DATE for the 6th Annual Educational and Energy Efficiency Trade Expo, being held on October 8, 2013, at Russo's On the Bay, Howard Beach, NY. The event brings the industry together to learn about new advancements in product technology, installation methods and code changes.

For more information, visit http://www.nycmpc.org/2013expo/

Chiller Upgrades Now at $0.16/kWh with the Con Edison C&I Program!

Chiller Incentive Update!

Con Edison is pleased to announce a major enhancement to its Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Energy Efficiency Incentive program: all future chiller measures will be incentivized through the Electric Custom C&I Program at an increased rate of $0.16/kWh saved.

This new chiller custom incentive rate will be available to program participants effective immediately.

We encourage you to contact us early in the planning stages for your chiller replacement projects – as with all C&I programs, applications must be submitted before work has started on the project. Contact your Energy Advisor today, or call 877-797-6347 to speak with a C&I team member.

Questions?

For further information regarding chiller rebates and other available incentives, please contact your Con Edison C&I Program representative directly or call our hotline at 877-797-6347.

Con Edison’s C&I Program offers a wide range of energy efficiency rebates and incentives for everything from lighting upgrades and energy efficient motors, to control systems, HVAC, data centers, and many other measures.

Visit: conEd.com/energysavings | Call: 1-877-797-6347 | E-mail: conedci@lmbps.com

MCC Member: Barrett Capital Corporation: CO-OP CITY CASE STUDY

CHALLENGES

In 2011, Co-op City, located in the Bronx, and the largest cooperative housing development in the world with over 15,000 units and a population of 55,000, had the opportunity to save a significant amount of money on its electric bill as well as to reduce energy usage in its “city within a city” by replacing its existing light fixtures with energy efficient lighting in its 8 garages. The cost of the project was approximately $3 million.

Co-op City’s challenge was to locate a contractor that could undertake the project without requiring any capital contribution from Co-Op City. In order to provide for the energy efficient lighting at no up-front cost to Co-op City, Green Energy Management Services, Inc. (GEM), an energy management company, structured a shared savings contract in which the savings from the energy efficiency project itself covered the cost.

The challenge to GEM, which arranged for the replacement of the 6,100 light fixtures at Co-op City’s 8 parking garages, was how it could be paid up front, instead of having to receive payment over the 10 year term of the contract. Thus, a creative financing solution was needed to fund GEM, given the shared savings arrangement and variables within the garages. The process was complex and time consuming, but by selecting Barrett Capital to handle the financing, GEM secured a commitment to provide it with up front financing.

PROCESS & APPROACH

Barrett Capital developed and executed a financing plan, in line with its business model, which involved working closely with Co-op City, its excellent management team and advisors, and GEM to:

• Verify that the energy savings the originating energy services company projected would be realized despite the uncertainties at the Co-op City garages;

• Provide Co-op City with a meaningful financial incentive to achieve Co-op City board approval of the assignment of the contract to Barrett Capital;

• Arrange for the appropriate legal documentation that would be approved by New York State’s Division of Housing and Community Renewal (“DHCR”); and,

• Create a payment plan that would be simple and require minimal administration by Co-op City.

SOLUTION

Barrett Capital devised an innovative structure to finance the Shared Savings Plan, providing funding for almost $2 million, or 65% of the $2.9 million cost of the project. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) provided a $1 million grant to fund the other 35% of the cost. Barrett Capital entered into an Assignment, Assumption & Indemnity Agreement with GEM taking an assignment of the Co-op/GEM Energy Shared Savings Contract. Upon receipt of fully executed documents from the Co-op, Barrett Capital paid GEM its $993,000 upfront payment.

To induce Co-op City to acknowledge the assignment from GEM to Barrett Capital and consent to an agreed upon payment schedule, Barrett Capital provided a financial incentive for Co-op City. In accordance with the Assignment Agreement, all representations and warranties stayed with GEM. Barrett Capital assumed the credit risk of the repayment from the savings.

Barrett Capital’s business model calls for bringing in an independent engineer to verify the projected savings. Since Barrett Capital is being paid back from the savings, its interests are aligned with the client, Co-op City.

On its site visit, Barrett Capital’s engineer learned that there was a maintenance facility being operated in one of the garages and a radio tower being operated from another. Both generating substantial additional electricity. Despite not knowing of these variables at the time, Barrett Capital’s structure was able to deal with them to everyone’s satisfaction.

RESULTS

Barrett Capital’s financing of the Shared Savings Plan resulted in a rare WIN-WIN-WIN.

WIN for Co-op City: A massive energy efficiency upgrade at no out-of-pocket cost, an incremental financial windfall and with substantial immediate savings on its garage energy costs on the order of $300,000 per year.

WIN for GEM: An infusion of nearly $1 million in cash, allowing the company to pursue and fund additional energy efficiency projects, as well as a validation of its business model.

WIN for the Environment: The projected energy savings, over the 10 year period, are expected to be on the order of 2,300,000 MWh which is the equivalent of taking 338,000 cars off of the road.

Barry P. Korn

Managing Director

bkorn@barrettcapital.com

Barriers to Energy Efficiency --- Who’s to Blame and Who Can Help by MCC Guest Blogger Susan Aiello, LEED AP, ASID, CID

http://www.idsny.com/susan_aiello.html

Sometimes it seems as though there are outside forces conspiring to prevent us from doing what we know is the right thing. It's particularly easy to find a villain when it comes to energy saving measures.
• Tenants can blame their landlords, who won't make building improvements that could result in energy savings.
• Building owners can blame their tenants, who use inefficient lighting and equipment in their individual spaces and then leave them turned on at night.
• Anyone undertaking a construction project can blame various state, local and federal entities for not making funding for sustainable initiatives easier.
• Anyone who needs a loan can blame the banks, not only because loans for green initiatives are difficult to get, but because borrowing money for building improvements can trigger mortgage defaults.
• The banks can blame the government, because allowing mortgagers to assume additional debt for properties that are already worth less than when the mortgages were written could violate banking regulations.
• The government can blame the financial institutions, who were largely responsible for the insane inflation and subsequent meltdown of the real estate market.


It appears that to find who’s to blame for the poor rate of adoption of energy saving measures, we should all be looking in the mirror. There are steps that we can each take to make things better, whether or not we get the cooperation and support that we would like from others.


Going green definitely has its challenges, and it can be easy to get discouraged when others are less helpful than we'd hoped. But waiting for a hero to come along on a white charger to save the day is not a viable alternative.

Climate change and the threat that dependence on foreign oil represents to our economy and our national security are such large problems that they can make us all feel helpless, but if we each address areas of energy use that are within our own control at least we'll be contributing to the solution instead of the problem.

• Tenants can turn off lights and equipment when they are not needed. It goes without saying that lights and equipment should not be left on overnight or in unoccupied rooms. Tenants can also think before turning lights on. For instance, little to no artificial light may be required during the day for work spaces close to windows or skylights. And the number of work areas that can benefit from daylight can be increased with space planning and furniture placement.
• Tenants can elect to purchase energy efficient lighting and equipment whenever a replacement is needed. New York City now requires that efficient lighting and controls be installed when lighting is replaced as part of a renovation project that is filed with the Department of Buildings, but tenants can take this a step further and make incremental improvements to lighting efficiency whenever the opportunity presents itself.
• Building owners can install efficient equipment, lighting and lighting controls in common spaces and ensure that building systems are working as they should. The payback period for professional retrocommissioning and implementing many of the resulting recommendations can be less than a year.
• While owners might wish to defer larger capital investments, they can ensure that when they do invest in major systems their choices are informed by the need for energy efficiency.
• Building owners and tenants can work together for their common benefit. Green leases can provide for equitable distribution of energy costs based on actual usage and reimbursement for capital improvements that result in energy savings.
• Banks and appraisers can consider energy efficiency in determining building asset value. And banks can loan money for building improvements that will save energy and increase asset value, or at least allow mortgagers to borrow the money elsewhere.
• State, local and federal entities can facilitate funding for sustainable initiatives, especially for those who do not have access to attorneys and financial advisers. But funding should be viewed as a benefit of, not a prerequisite for, sustainable initiatives.

There are steps that we can each take to make things better, whether or not we get the cooperation and support that we would like from others. And if we each focus on doing what we can, no matter how insignificant it may seem, we can all save a lot of energy…. and money.

MCC Green Business Committee: Upcoming Meetings and Events

June 6th: 9-10:30am MCC Green Design and Construction sub-committee meeting Meet at the Green Building Center and hear this month’s speaker, Susan Aiello of Interior Design Solutions (free for MCC members, $20 for non-members)

June 7th: 9-10:30am: MCC Green Finance sub-committee Meeting. Meet with other sustainability and finance professionals to hear the latest NYC updates and hear this month’s speaker Barry Korn, CEO of Barrett Capital (free for MCC members, $20 for non-members)

June 24th-June 28th: New York Energy Week (MCC co-sponsored event)

(Postponed: July date to be announced shortly) June 24th: 5:30-7:30PM: MCC Green Energy sub-committee meeting: Update on Renewable Legislation in Congress (free for MCC members, $20 for non-members)

Announcement from the Green Hospitality Initiative (new date)

The Green Hospitality Initiative (“GHI”), a program funded by the EPA and sponsored by the New York State Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, helps New York restaurants increase both their sustainability and profitability. Through free group and on-site trainings, the GHI assesses current operations and provides individualized reports, specifically for energy reduction, water conservation, and the transition from toxic to non-toxic cleaning chemicals. On Tuesday, June 18th, the GHI will be hosting a group training at the NYSRA offices (1001 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd floor) from 9am-11am, where they will introduce a new format. In addition to presenting on the program and describing it in more depth, they are looking for multiple companies with innovative “green” products and services for the hospitality industry to present to their clients. If you are interested in presenting or attending, or have any questions or concerns, please contact Casey Heil at cmh470@nyu.edu or 914.329.9840 or Alan Someck at asomeck@gmail.com or 516.448.1504.