Empire State Building Achieves LEED Gold

Empire State Building Company, Jones Lang LaSalle and U.S. Green Building Council announce milestone achievement for World's Most Famous Office Building

NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2011 - The Empire State Building has been awarded a LEED® Gold for Existing Buildings certification as further recognition from the $550 million Empire State ReBuilding program. The Empire State Building is the tallest and most well known building in the U.S. to receive LEED certification. The 2.85 million-square-foot building is celebrating its 80th anniversary while nearing completion of its renewal and repurposing to meet the needs of 21st Century businesses. It is one of a small number of National Historic Landmarks to earn the designation, which was established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). The announcement was made jointly by Anthony Malkin, Empire State Building Company; Dana Robbins Schneider, vice president of Jones Lang LaSalle, program manager of the energy retrofit, LEED feasibility assessment and application process; and Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair of USGBC. The LEED Gold certification follows the ground-breaking creation and implementation of a new replicable, transparent, quantifiable process for economically justified energy efficient retrofits in the existing built environment created a team of the Clinton Climate Initiative, Johnson Controls, Jones Lang LaSalle and the Rocky Mountain Institute. The game-changing analytical model is non-proprietary and open-source and is being replicated at other properties around the world. There is a new focus by government and the real estate industry on investment and return in energy efficiency retrofits driven from the well-documented success of the Empire State Building. The retrofit conducted by Johnson Controls and Jones Lang LaSalle is guaranteed to reduce the building's energy consumption by more than 38 percent and should save $4.4 million in energy costs annually, representing an approximate three-year payback of the cost of implementation. The building gained ENERGY STAR certification in 2010 and has maintained ENERGY STAR certification in 2011. For more on the analytical model, visit www.esbsustainability.com. The improvements also reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 105,000 metric tons over 15 years. In January 2011, Malkin agreed to buy carbon offsets totalling 55 million kilowatt hours per year of renewable energy, making the Empire State Building carbon-neutral. "When it was built, the Empire State Building instantly became an icon of its era. Now, due to this remarkable investment in energy efficiency, the Empire State Building will be an icon of the 21st century as well, leading our current era in the retrofitting and upgrading of existing buildings to meet modern energy conditions," said David Bragdon, Director of the Mayor's Office of Long-Term Planning & Sustainability. "LEED Gold certification is another win for us following our ground-breaking energy efficiency retrofit work. It is my hope that all future LEED certifications for existing building projects will require demonstrable, quantifiable improvements in energy efficiency, delivering economic returns for building owners, tenants, and the communities in which they are located," Malkin said. "I thank Dana Schneider, our Empire State Building team, and the professionals at the U.S. Green Building Council for their hard work in this huge undertaking. I hope USGBC will be incorporating documented energy efficiency improvements into LEED 2012, which is now in public comment." "LEED certification is one of the top criteria for many tenants today, and it reinforces the strong business case we have made for a cost-effective energy retrofit that lowers tenant occupancy costs," Schneider said. "We have continued our work with building ownership with LEED-level new tenant installations and tenant-based energy efficiency programs, which are now being documented in a new program with the Center for Market Innovation of the Natural Resources Defense Council, funded by a grant from the Goldman Sachs Foundation." "By earning LEED Gold, the Empire State Building has sent a powerful message that green buildings don't have to be new – even the most iconic, historic buildings, as grand in scale as in reputation, can be among the most high-performing, energy-efficient, green buildings," Fedrizzi said. "The leadership exhibited by Tony Malkin, and everyone involved in this project is monumental and should be applauded." The USGBC will also recognize Malkin with its 2011 Leadership Award, bestowed on "organizations and individuals who signify vision, leadership and commitment to the evolution of green building design and construction." Malkin is recognized for this prestigious award based on his commitment and guidance to the team throughout the retrofit process, his promotion of the replicable model and his strong advocacy of energy efficiency before Congress, with U.S. mayors and other government and business leaders. The energy retrofit and other actions leading to LEED certification also helped New York's economy by creating jobs for 250 people, Schneider noted. The Empire State Building ownership directed that sustainable practices be at the center of new operations and upgrades as part of the Empire State ReBuilding program. Low environmental impact operations procedures were put in place immediately following the transition of the day-to-day operations of the building from Helmsley-Spear to Malkin Holdings, supervisor of building owner Empire State Building Company. After the energy efficiency retrofit program was developed and its implementation was underway, Jones Lang LaSalle led a separate study of the feasibility of LEED certification. This feasibility study showed that LEED Gold certification was within reach at an incremental cost of about $0.25 per square foot. Beyond energy efficiency, activities at the Empire State Building which helped achieve LEED Gold certification include:

• Installation of ultra low-flow fixtures in the building's restrooms
• Use of green cleaning supplies and pest control products
• Recycling of tenant waste and construction debris
• Use of recycled paper products
• Use of recycled content carpets, low off-gassing wall coverings, paints, and adhesives
• A program of tenant engagement, including submetering, a newly created Tenant Energy Management System, and mandatory green requirements in lease agreements.

In addition to the Empire State Building receiving LEED Gold certification, the USGBC has notified Empire State Building Company and Jones Lang LaSalle that a 3,500-square-foot pre-built space on the 42nd floor has been certified Platinum under the LEED for Commercial Interiors rating system. Jones Lang LaSalle built out the space in accordance with the building's interior design guidelines in order to demonstrate the cost and energy savings to tenants and prospects. The northward-facing space with views to the east and west is a key stop on leasing tours of the building, and is also available for lease to a tenant with immediate move-in needs.

Melvin Wylie

Legal Sea Foods Stirs Sustainability Debate With New Ad Campaign

Restaurant Launches TV and Print Ads That Focus On the Hot-Button Issue BOSTON, Sept. 13, 2011 - A series of new television and print ads debuting next week from the famed Boston-based restaurant Legal Sea Foods may not sit well initially with some marine conservationists, as the humorous spots unconvincingly take both sides of the sustainability debate. But the intention of the new ad campaign is to encourage the public to better understand the complexity of the situation and make more informed decisions on what we should and should not eat. The ad campaign, created by the New York advertising agency DeVito/Verdi, focuses on three types of fish – salmon, trout and crab – that enjoy ample stocks. The print ads and television commercials mirror each other, with each one focusing on a specific fish and the need to "save" the species. In one, we see a majestic salmon flying through the air as it makes its way upstream. The voiceover and copy state: "Save the salmon. Save it so our children can witness the grace and beauty of this noble fish. Or, just save it so we can saute it with our fabulous lemon chive butter sauce." Legal Sea Foods has long taken an active role in the sustainability debate, making strong arguments for the protection of both endangered fish and commercial fishermen. Roger Berkowitz, president and CEO of Legal Sea Foods, stated that the objective of the ad campaign is to encourage a discussion on the topic and to open everyone's eyes to the nuances of the issue. "We're passionate about sustainability, but we also feel the issue has been clouded by outdated and faulty data, and a reliance on simplistic dictums from groups that help turn the public against certain species of fish. This campaign will hopefully facilitate an open dialogue and better understanding that seafood sustainability is not such a black and white issue," said Berkowitz. The ad campaign focuses on three types of fish – salmon, trout and crab – that enjoy ample stocks. The print ad and commercial for the crab begins with a shot of a lone crab walking along the seashore. The solemn copy reads: "Save the crab. Save it to show that every creature is sacred, no matter how small. Or, just save it so we can chop it up into tasty little crab cakes." "Sure, people may jump to the conclusion that we're being flip about the topic, but it's quite the opposite. This is a debate we need to have. We need to constantly question where fish comes from and how it was caught and, moreover, demand more from those tasked with protecting the fish supply," said Berkowitz.

Melvin Wylie

The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation Joins Jonathan Bird's Blue World as an Underwriting Sponsor

      DAVIE, FL - Winner of three 2011 Emmy Awards, Jonathan Bird's Blue World TV series has welcomed aboard celebrated marine artist, scientist and conservationist Guy Harvey for the show's upcoming 3rd Season as an underwriting sponsor.   The sponsorship comes through The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation (GHOF), www.GuyHarveyOceanFoundation.org, which funds inspired scientific research and innovative educational programs to encourage conservation and best management practices for sustainable marine environments. There will be a 15 second underwriter's credit at the beginning and ending of each episode.   Season 3 will begin airing in some markets this month and to ultimately air in 22% of the U.S. and in 16 states with half of the broadcasts on weekends and 24% in prime time.   Jonathan Bird's Blue World takes viewers on an adventurous exploration of the world's oceans in a series the whole family will enjoy, explains Harvey. The series is also a valuable tool for science education. Because it is entertaining and educational, many teachers find it valuable to incorporate Blue World into their science curriculum. I'm pleased to support those efforts.   Season three features the heartwarming story of Sully the Pilot Whale, the magical moment when coral spawns, surprise diving lessons and a Caribbean adventure for a 13 year old Blue World fan. Viewers will meet Sea Lions, Humpback whales, bottom-dwelling sharks, blind cavefish, dolphins in Curaçao, sea snakes, sailfish and the Potato Cod. They will swim with Jonathan in the world¹s largest Aquarium tank, and meet the always entertaining Diver Ed, who takes everyone diving in Maine without getting wet.   Jonathan Bird's Blue World has aired continuously on public television stations in the United States since May 2008. Co-produced by Jonathan Bird Productions and Oceanic Research Group, the series has been shown over 8,500 times in 33 states to over 160 million potential viewers. Season 3 of the series is scheduled for release in August 2011. Seasons 1 and 2 are available on DVD. Individual segments and educational materials for teachers are available at www.blueworldtv.com.

Melvin Wylie

How Green Is Your Workplace?

HOUSTON, Sept. 12, 2011 - American homeowners know how to "Think Green." Whether choosing Energy Star appliances or selecting more energy efficient lighting, millions of people are incorporating energy efficiency into their personal habits and purchasing decisions. Now a leading energy company is encouraging its customers to take those same "green" principles and apply them to their business life as well. MXenergy, a Constellation Company and a leader in the sustainability movement, strives to educate and inform customers about energy efficiency as part of the company's continuing commitment to energy conservation. "All across America we see people working to improve their home energy efficiency," says Marjorie Kass, MXenergy managing director of marketing. "Yet, we are not necessarily seeing those same strides on the corporate front. There are so many relatively simple changes which can have such a dramatic impact on office energy usage." MXenergy "Green Office" Tips Power Down: Check to make sure you are maximizing your computer's energy efficiency settings. Turn off the computer at night or when not in use for long periods of time. Encourage your office to convert to more energy efficient lighting and to turn off lights when not in use. Quit Pushing Paper: When at all possible, "go digital." Eliminate as much printed paper as possible. When it is necessary to print a hard copy, print double-sided and make sure your office is recycling ink and toner cartridges as well as purchasing recycled paper and remanufactured ink and toner. Take A Break: The company break room can be an excellent starting point for a green campaign. If not already in place, ask for recycling containers to be made available. Switch to Fair Trade organic coffee and recyclable or reusable utensils and cups. Encourage the use of non-toxic cleaning supplies. Rather than heading out to lunch or ordering in, bring lunch from home in reusable containers. This not only reduces energy consumption but packaging waste as well. Cut the Travel: Telecommuting, carpooling and video-conferencing are all excellent ways to reduce individual and corporate carbon footprints. According to Treehugger.com, over $8 billion in gas could be saved annually if every car in the U.S. simply added one additional passenger to its commute. "Creating a more eco-friendly work environment doesn't have to be costly or time-intensive," says Kass. "Something as simple as adding a desk plant to improve air quality or choosing to host a meeting via video-conferencing rather than paying for plane travel can make a difference. It isn't about the size of the change, it is simply about making the decision to start the process that is so important."

Melvin Wylie

Penn State's Public Broadcasting Team Joins Expedition Chesapeake

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 12, 2011 - Whitaker Center for Science & the Arts has selected Penn State Public Broadcasting to develop a made-for-television documentary focused on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed as part of the Center's $10 million Expedition Chesapeake initiative. Penn State Public Broadcasting will produce a broadcast documentary as part of Expedition Chesapeake, a multi-media, educational and entertainment experience anchored by a 42-minute giant screen film featuring Animal Planet star Jeff Corwin. The sweeping initiative also includes an online curriculum and travelling, 4-D science exhibit. "Penn State brings a wealth of talent and experience to this effort. We're very excited that the leadership at Penn State Public Broadcasting recognizes the importance of Expedition Chesapeake. The documentary we will produce is a critical element of our goal to engage and educate the 17 million residents of the Bay watershed," said Dr. Michael L. Hanes, President & CEO of Whitaker Center. "This is a welcome addition to our initiative." Penn State Public Broadcasting joins a growing production and development team for the project, led by Emmy winner Jeff Corwin. Corwin hosts two television shows on Animal Planet and has developed a worldwide television audience. He has been described as the world's best-known biologist. "Expedition Chesapeake is a wonderful project and an important one. The goal is to entertain and educate all of the Bay watershed's residents and we're very excited to join this initiative," said Tom Keiter, Director of Creative Development for Penn State Public Broadcasting. "This fits our mission of public service media – looking at issues important to society and using media to engage people in a creative and informative way." The Chesapeake Bay watershed is the largest estuary in the United States and covers 64,000 square miles in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware and Washington, D.C. The educational tools are designed to inform, engage and challenge all citizens in a comfortable and interactive conversation. "The goal is to produce media that promotes an understanding of the importance this watershed has to everyday life, and the impact people have on the Bay watershed each and every day," Keiter said. "We want to educate and inspire people to become more aware of this watershed and the documentary series will be an important part of the overall initiative." Hanes added that Expedition Chesapeake will serve as a model for watersheds around the nation. "We're going to develop a comprehensive, multi-media package of tools designed to both entertain and educate people. Each element of the initiative, from the giant screen film to the travelling science exhibit and documentary project, is designed to help people become more aware of how they can help preserve this vital resource," Hanes said. "It's a great and exciting challenge and Penn State Public Broadcasting is going to play a major role."

Melvin Wylie

20th Episode of GreenNews4u

Welcome to the 20th Episode of GreenNews4U! In this episode I interview Ric Ten with The Tafari Brand. We talk about Organic Clothing, all natural products, what it means to be a Itealist, the meaning of Tafari and much, much more. The Tafari is a casual luxury lifestyle brand which offers products that epitomize an environmentally friendly and universally conscious way of life. Our basis and inspiration is natural creativity which we utilize for spiritual and divine purposes. Our goal is to provide a wide range of high quality garments and products that are representative of natural life and its origins. A complete collection, with authenticity and craftsmanship evident in each item. We are promoting Creation in all of its splendor and glory. And ultimately, the Creator, TAFARI! View their web page here. http://www.archive.org/download/20thEpisodeOfGreennews4u/20thEpisodeOfGreennews4u.mp3

Melvin Wylie

19th Episode of GreenNews4U

Welcome to the 19th Episode of GreenNews4U! In this episode I interview Donna Morton with First Power. We had a great discussion on the Unreasonable Institute, First Power and the First Nations Indian Tribes, Renewables, and much, more. Donna Morton is the CEO and co-founderof First Power she builds the social and economic aspects of projects and builds our diverse partnerships. In 2003 Donna was awarded an Ashoka fellowship and the Women and Spirit of the Crane award for business leadership through her work with the Centre for Integral Economics. She has a more than 20 year track record developing projects, communications and consulting with numerous First Nations and First Nation organizations, large and small businesses, governments and NGO's. Donna is very experienced keynote speaker in Canada and internationally. She was featured as 1 of 30 global leaders who use the power of the market to deliver on the environment in the international TV series - Act for the Planet. View their web page here

Melvin Wylie