JULY 30, 2007

COUNTY LEGISLATURE APPROVES GREEN GOVERNMENT BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, APPLIANCE LOCAL LAWS

The Erie County Legislature unanimously approved two environmentally friendly local laws, cosponsored by County Legislature Majority Leader Maria R. Whyte (D-Buffalo), bringing "green" construction and energy standards for new and renovated public buildings and requiring the municipal purchase of Energy Star rated appliances, at its July 26 session.

Local Law No. 5 concerns public building green standards and will require new and renovated public buildings to meet energy efficiency, reduced water use and other environmental standards. Because buildings account for 39 percent of total energy use and 38 percent of carbon dioxide emissions, incorporating green technologies into buildings is a major step toward reducing fossil fuel use. This action can save significant taxpayer money and provide healthier, more productive workplaces for public employees. The local laws have the support of a wide range of citizens from environmental advocates to labor representatives.

"This local law will reduce County energy costs and help to train a new generation of construction workers to use green building technology," Legislator Whyte said. "This is a first step in helping Western New York to become a leader in creating a new green economy."

Local Law No. 4, on green procurement standards, will require government-purchased appliances to be Energy Star rated, the most energy-efficient models available. Government accounts for 15 percent of commercial electricity use in New York State, and three-quarters of this power goes to air conditioning, lights and appliances. Governments changing their procurement policies in these areas to emphasize energy efficiency can significantly reduce energy consumption, financial and environmental costs. This local law is expected to reduce Erie County's electric bill.

"Climate change requires a global response, but that doesn't exempt us from responsibility to act locally. Erie County is taking the lead on becoming a green county, and that will benefit our children and our economy for generations to come," Legislator Whyte said. "This bill will not only help protect our city's natural resources over the long-term, but it will provide immediate benefits to our children's health. Green is healthier, simple as that."

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