Category: Ask an Expert

I apologize for the broadness of this question, but I was wondering about the overall sustainability of New York City. Does its population density compensate for the concentrated pollution? How does it compare in terms of energy consumption per capita to other cities? Rural areas? – Janelle

Dear Green Expert, I am rehabbing a kitchen and found a sink I really like that is made of 80 percent granite and 20 percent acrylic and resin. The material is called Silgranit and manufactued by Blanco. Are these eco-friendly materials? The manufacturer’s website says very little on this issue so I’m dubious. Thank you!…

Hi, I am a New York City public high school teacher. We are investigating installing a green roof system on our school roof with the help of graduate students at CUNY. Do you know if any of the state or local utilities might help fund this effort? We are having some trouble raising the money…

I was wondering what some of the specific health concerns there are for buildings that are not created in the “green construction” fashion. What are some health benefits of green constructed buildings. – Liz

Can you direct me to any information on how individual buildings/co-ops/condos in NYC are using solar power? Does anyone have cells on their rooftops, etc? What is the feasibility of such an endeavor? – Chris

We own a brownstone in Clinton Hill and are interested in installing solar panels but have no idea how to go about it or choose a product or contractor to do this. Do you have any good resources or organizations? – Lai-Wan

I’m seeking a small quantity of reclaimed lumber for a project. Anyone in the NYC metro area who supplies reclaimed wood? Thanks for your thoughts. – Bob

Hi – I have been trying to get an answer to this for a while but to no avail. In NYC many brownstones are heated with single-pipe steam heating. Often the apts are too hot and people open windows to cool them down. If, instead of opening the window, I put insulation on the heating…

Hello, I am currently selecting furniture for a non-profit organization (I am with an Allsteel dealership) and was wondering if you might assist me in finding environmentally friendly casegoods and seating? Thank you in advance! Elisa Borgatti Elisa,

Hello, have been considering switching to a green supplier of electricity for about a year or so, however the fact that it is slightly higher than what I’m paying for traditional electricity, is a major deterrent. It was with great interest that I read Anne-Lise Breuning’s testimonial regarding her experience with switching, and wondered how…