New Benchmarking Laws: Sustainable Building Requirements in NYC
Introduction In the bustling metropolis of New York City, the dialogue surrounding urban development has increasingly pivoted towards sustainability. The city's new benchmarking laws are a testament to this shift, aiming to transform the environmental footprint of buildings across the five boroughs. These regulations come at a crucial time as cities worldwide grapple with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. Background of Benchmarking Laws Benchmarking, in the context of building and environmental performance, involves comparing a building's metrics such as energy usage, water consumption, and waste management against a set of standards or similar buildings. This practice helps in identifying opportunities for improvement and promoting sustainability. Historically, NYC has been at the forefront of such initiatives. The city's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint has led to various legislations aimed at increasing building efficiency ...