Marcellino Promotes Green Building

Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R, Syosset) announced today that the Senate has passed his legislation, Senate Bill 5442-B, which requires all new construction and substantial renovation projects undertaken by New York State to comply with green building principles. The bill has already passed the Assembly.

Green buildings use resources such as energy, water and land more efficiently and effectively. They are essential in providing healthier environments for working, learning and living. Within the workplace, green buildings enable employees to thrive in a healthier indoor environment by effectively controlling air ventilation systems and using alternative paints, finishes, adhesives, as well as furniture and fabrics that do not negatively affect air quality. Green buildings function to minimize negative environmental consequences by lessening changes to the natural environment. Specifically, green buildings use recyclable material, incorporate renewable and energy efficient power generation systems, use water resources more efficiently and produce less waste.

"Building green is undoubtedly a positive direction for New York State," Senator Marcellino said. "Maintenance costs can be reduced and sustainable buildings can be created, which is a critical step in fostering developments in green technologies."

The purpose of this legislation is to promote the development of high performance green sustainable buildings undertaken by the State. New York was among the first states in the nation to offer a tax incentive program for the developers and buildings of environmentally friendly buildings.

"As strong proponents of the green building movement, the (Northeast Retail Lumber Association (NRLA) membership is delighted there is overwhelming support for Senator Marcellino’s bill creating the ‘Green Building Construction Act.’ Senator Marcellino’s bill ensures there is no preferential treatment given to any one green building certification standard and includes references to multiple credible systems which contributes to the common goal, preservation of the environment."

Suzanne Madden, Director of State Government Affairs of the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) said "AF&PA fully endorses the goal of building more sustainable buildings. Sustainable buildings offer a wide variety of environmental benefits, including better energy and water efficiency, reduced solid waste output and conservation of natural resources. . Wood is one of the world’s most environmentally-friendly building materials. From framing to floors to other interior products, wood is renewable and recyclable, and continues to store carbon dioxide even as a finished product."

"New York has continued to be on the forefront in signing into law measures intended to encourage building owners and developers to design, construct and operate buildings that are more in harmony with the surrounding natural environment. This initiative is an important step in not only preserving and protecting our natural resources, but also improving the quality of life for all New Yorkers," concluded Senator Marcellino.