The Greening of New York • Case Studies in Sustainable Urban Planning
Program Overview

Thursday, March 26, 2009
10:00 - 10:25: Creating and Championing a Culture of Sustainability
To be successful in the long term, creating a culture of sustainability requires a systems perspective with emphasis on energy reduction. Without this holistic vision, sustainability initiatives can unwittingly result in series of ineffective green silos, whether in building, energy, and transportation in the built environment, or organizational issues in your business. This session will help you understand what is “most important” vis-à-vis strategy, while exploring methods for implementing a viable, integrated sustainability program.
• Michael McDonough, Principal, Michael McDonough Architect


10:35 - 11:20: Green  Retrofitting of Commercial  Buildings
The commercial building industry is increasingly integrating sustainable construction methods and procedures into projects of every size and scope and in every geographic region. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, 10% of all new commercial construction will receive the organization’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by next year. Existing structures are also a prime target for green rehab and retrofit. In this session, a  LEED consultant, a construction manager and a construction attorney will explore the many issues involved in bringing a green  retrofit project from planning to completion.
• Kenneth Block, Partner and Construction Chair, Tannenbaum Helpern Syracuse & Hirschtritt LLP
• Erica Brabon, Pipeline Manager of Existing Buildings, Steven Winter Associates
• Nora Fay, Principal and LEED AP, Lehr Construction Corp

11:30 - 12:15: Alternative Energy: Matching Resources with Specific Applications for Optimum Results
Renewable energy sources are increasingly seen as viable alternatives to traditional power generating methods. Yet, not every technology is suitable for every application. How and where can they be implemented and at what cost…and with what benefits? Panelists will present a technology overview of solar, wind and biomass along with real-world application studies of projects up and running particularly in the urban environment.
• Solar Energy: Andrew McNamara, CEM, LEED AP, Senior Consultant and Vice President- New Construction Services, Bright Power, Inc.
• Biomass Energy: Joseph C. Murray, President and CEO, Green Energy Resources
• Wind Energy: K.C. Sahl, New York Project Director, Bluewater Wind LLC

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2:15 - 3:00: Achieving Energy Efficiency: An Overview of Commercial, Industrial, and Residential Applications
As uncertainty over the cost and availability of energy continues to generate concern, businesses of every size and type as well as homeowners are seeking ways to reduce expenditures for electric power while maintaining a safe, secure and comfortable environment. This session will examine transmission and distribution issues, the latest advances in energy saving products and technologies, cost containment measures, energy audits, and available incentives.
• Residential Applications: Andrew Brooks, Director of Technical Services, Association for Energy Affordability, Inc.
• Commercial Applications: Francis Fragola, Chief Operating Officer, MC Alliance Energy Group
• Public Utility: David R. Pospisil, CEM, Account Executive/HVAC Specialist, Energy Efficiency Programs, Con Edison Company of New York


3:10 - 4:10: Green Affordable Housing-- Yes We Can
Three architects will present a multi-family project in NYC that is currently in design and/or construction to highlight best practices in green design for affordable housing. This will be a discussion of how to design and construction green affordable housing-- what are the challenges and opportunities, what works, what doesn't. Each of the projects is being designed to achieve LEED Gold or better certification. Attendees will learn about the issues and techniques for designing sustainable high density housing.
• Mark Ginsberg, FAIA, LEED AP Partner, Curtis + Ginsberg Architects LLP
• Amie Gross, AIA, President, Amie Gross Architects
• William Stein FAIA, Principal, Dattner Architects

(1 CES/ 1 HSW/ 1 SD)

Friday, March 27, 2009
10:00 - 10:25: Sustaining Sustainability Initiatives in an Economic Downturn
With the economy in a protracted slump, some business analysts have questioned whether spending on green initiatives will eventually fall victim to the cutting block. Yet, companies that have positioned sustainability as a core business strategy increasingly realize that reducing green initiatives as a reaction to current economic conditions could put them in a competitive disadvantage—both in the near term and even more so when the economy recovers. This session will explore what companies can do to proceed with and promote their investment in sustainability to employees, customers, suppliers and investors. 
• Paul Polizzotto, Founder and CEO, EcoMedia

10:30 - 11:20: Green Roofs and Walls: Design, Construction, Applications…and Benefits
As green roofs and walls take root in cityscapes around the world, building owners who have embraced this innovative technology report increased energy savings, better control of storm water, extended roof life, and added value to their properties. Owners also benefit from the positive response of building tenants who welcome the heightened sense of nature and serenity that these structures bring to the busy urban environment. This session will explore the concept and rationale of green roofs and how they work while providing an overview on design, construction, materials, innovative uses, building integration, cost comparison with traditional roofing systems, and ROI. Examples of existing green roof and wall structures will be presented as well as a look at future projects. Both new building and retrofit design and construction will also be covered.
• Marni Horwitz, Owner, Alive Structures
• George Irwin, President, Green Living Technologies
• Kari Elwell Katzander, Owner and Principal Designer, Mingo Design


11:30 - 12:15: Eco Luxury and Water Efficient Design-- A Case Study
More than ever before, there is a growing interest and demand to conserve water. New York City, for example, received a water rate increase of  14.5% last July, the highest hike since 1992. And then, there is California. They are not only facing a budget shortfall, but they are also facing a severe water shortage, with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declaring a state of emergency. TOTO USA and Morris Sato Studio will demonstrate how luxury and  water efficiency can co-exist. Highlights from Morris Sato's Shelter Island  House will be featured.
• Jeremy A. Cressman, LEED AP, TOTO USA
• Christopher W. Ehlers,  Manager of Business Development|, TOTO USA
• Michael Morris, Morris Sato Studio

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2:15 - 3:00: Creating Sustainable Neighborhoods and Urban Spaces
One of the principal objectives of sustainable urban development is the creation of socially, economically, and environmentally viable neighborhoods that meet the needs of residents while respecting the cultural and historical fabric of the community. This session will look at the integrated built environment that addresses housing, transport, energy, and larger infrastructure needs. Presenters will also share their experiences and insights with regard to developers, policy makers and established business interests.
• Shampa Chanda, Assistant Commissioner for Planning, NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development
• Susan Chin, FAIA, Assistant Commissioner, Capital Projects, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs
• Yolanda Gonzales, Executive Director, Nos Quedamos

3:10 - 3:55: Energy Saving Vehicles and Personal Transport Options for the Urban Environment
Energy saving transport solutions are not years away— many are already on the market. This session will look at a number of small electric vehicles, including pickup trucks, passenger vans, utility wagons and others suited for a wide range of applications, particularly within the urban environment. Attendees will also learn how an area college is saving on energy and maintenance costs while reducing campus air pollution through its investment in a fleet of small electric vehicles. And urban dwellers that don’t want to be bothered with car ownership or the inconvenience of making rental arrangements, will learn about “car sharing”, the latest revolution in personal urban transport for the 21st Century.
• Gary Birke, President and CEO, Motorworks Clean Vehicles
• Chris Ficalora, Regional Vice President, Zipcar, Inc.
• Dr. Frank Zeman, Director, Metropolitan Sustainability Center- New York Institute of Technology

Saturday, March 28, 2009
10:00 - 10:25: A World of Sustainability Solutions for Everyday Living
Learn how to green your business or home with a series of practical, no-cost or low-cost actions for energy savings, water conservation, improved indoor air quality, recycling and waste reduction, removal of toxic materials, and other steps for creating a cleaner…and safer environment. This session will also explore the latest advances in energy saving technologies, products, and resources that are readily available as well as tax credits, rebates and other financial incentives for meeting your green objectives while reducing your carbon footprint.
• P.J. Stafford, CEO, Green Irene

10:35 - 11:20: What’s New in Sustainable Building Materials, Home Furnishings and Appliances
It was not so long ago that finding sustainable products for a particular design or construction application could be a lengthy and often fruitless endeavor. Now, with a steady stream of green products entering the market, it’s hard to keep up with the latest advances in sustainable building materials, home furnishings, energy systems and appliances. This session will provide an overview of products and services specifically geared to meet the needs of the urban dweller and how to avoid so-called “green-washed” products that offer little or no sustainable value. You’ll also gain insider knowledge about selecting and working with architects, contractors, designers and building supply vendors. Whether you’re currently involved in greening your living space or considering a future project, this session will provide invaluable insights and perspectives for success.
• Tim Button, Partner, Stedila Design
• Kevin Parkhurst, Associate, Eric Lloyd Wright Architecture and Planning
• Robin Wilson, Chairman and CEO, Robin Wilson Home

11:30 - 12:15: Green Real Estate: Focus on Residential Development
Looking for a green apartment, co-op, condo, brownstone…or weekend urban retreat? You’re not alone. In this session, a green developer, builder and eco-broker will provide a primer on the green residential market in New York. You’ll learn about green building standards and practices, what to look for in seeking to live in green building, the types of properties available, amenities, locations, and costs—from affordable units to high-end luxury residences.
• Russell Albanese, President, Albanese Organization, Inc.
• Robert Politzer, President and CEO, GreenStreet Construction, Inc.
• Michael Rossi, President and Principal Broker, Elegran Real Estate and Development Services

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2:15 - 3:00: Investing in Green...Payback for You and the Planet
Investors are increasingly seeking out companies that are developing new technologies, products, and services that protect the environment while still creating opportunities for growth. Products and services that target sustainability are some the fastest growing categories in the consumer economy and the companies behind them are seen as viable investment opportunities for socially responsible wealth building. Presenters will review the green investment landscape and will provide historical perspectives and strategies for success.
• Greg Horn, Operating Advisor, Pegasus Capital Advisors
• Gary R. Matthews PhD, CPA/PFS AIF, First Affirmative Financial Network, LLC

3:10 - 3:55: AlternativeTechnologies and Innovative Resources for Sustainable Vehicle Transport
This session will explore the latest advances and developments in next-generation alternative transportation technologies, including plug-in hybrid electric, natural gas, hydrogen fuel cell, compressed natural gas, and the move to the all-electric car. Attendees will also learn about how fleets and individuals use natural gas vehicles today and how they are a bridge to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. They will understand the real world feasibility and practicality of on-site innovative solar parking lots where owners can charge their vehicles while at work, shopping, or engaged in any number of activities while their car sits in a parking lot. And contrary to popular belief, electrics are here now. These smaller, flexible vehicles have gone way beyond their roots as golf carts and are available in an increasing array of models and performance levels.
• Natural Gas, Plug-In Hybrid, and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles, Technologies and Timelines: Barry Carr, Alternative Fuels Vehicle Consultant, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
• Hydrogen Powered Vehicles Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Mass-Transit Buses and Fully-Integrated Hydrogen Fueling Stations: Raymond J. Kenard, Founder and President, American Wind Power & Hydrogen LLC
• Solar Powered Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEVs): Daniel Rapka, Mechanical Engineering Instructor and Laboratory Manager, New York Institute of Technology

Please note: Your registration includes access to all Green East conference sessions and admission to The Architectural Digest Home Design Show. Seating for the Green East conference is on a first come, first served basis. Speakers and topics subject to change.