UNITED NATIONS HQ GOES GREEN
by Jorge Chapa, 08/27/07
If there ever were a building in the world that should be as green as possible, the United Nations Headquarters in New York would probably be it. The good news: the UN seems to agree. The almost-60-year-old building, one of the most influential and iconic buildings on the Manhattan skyline, will be undergoing extensive renovations that will transform the building into a model of energy efficiency for all to follow.
Work on the United Nations building is set to begin in the next few months, and plans are afoot to turn the landmark building into a green project. The main goal behind the renovation is energy efficiency, with the project aiming at a 30% reduction in energy consumption. To do this, the entire lighting system will be retrofitted with energy-efficient light bulbs, room sensors and solar panel technology. Other considerations include the removal of the extremely hazardous asbestos within the original insulation, and the replacement of the window seals, to prevent the cold, or hot air, from leaving the building. The architects in charge of the project hope to obtain a LEED silver rating from the Green Building Council.
The renovation process will take a lengthy 7 years, and will come with a large price tag, hovering at a cost of at least 1.2 billion dollars (though much cheaper than the estimated 2 billion that would be spent in the next 25 years if nothing was to be done). Here’s to pro-active green initiative.
instead of using the word ‘green’ in the title, what is wrong with the phrase ‘aiming at a 30% reduction in energy consumption’? not sexy enough? at least its nearer the truth. while this is an impressive reduction for such a building, throwing the green word around will lead to more extensive greenwashing. 30% isn’t enough to be green in my opinion. all this being said, i am very pleased that such a huge investment has been put into this initiative and i hope more follow