The green roof at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City
New York City's Javits Center has released a sustainability report that details a host of sustainable initiatives that have been implemented at the convention facility, including a significant reduction in the building's energy consumption and the creation of a wildlife sanctuary.
Since 2014, 26 species of birds have been observed on or near the Javits Center's 6.75-acre green roof, making it a home for area wildlife in New York City. Six new bird species were identified in 2016, according to New York City Audubon, which has conducted annual six-month surveys atop the center. The green roof been able to reduce storm-water runoff: In partnership with New York City's Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, and Drexel University of Philadelphia, climate stations have been installed on the roof, and data collected so far indicate that the green roof is capable of retaining up to 7 million gallons of storm water on an annual basis.
"No building in New York City has done more for the area's bird populations than the Javits Center, and the results of our partnership reflect that commitment," said Kathryn Heintz, executive director of New York City Audubon. "The green roof has proven to be a habitat for a community of birds, bats and insects in an area of New York City that lacks green space. With its large size and unique location, the Javits Center has become a prime example of the important benefit of sustainability."
"The green roof has an enormous effect on energy reduction of the Javits Center and, quite frankly, is creating a new model for sustainability and urban infrastructure," said Joseph C. Cataldo, P.E., professor of civil engineering at New York's Cooper Union. "The drop in temperatures of the green roof over the black roof has been approximately 30 degrees Fahrenheit. We have also seen an improvement of nearly 18 degrees over street-level temperatures. The Javits Center should be commended for this commitment, and I am looking forward to continuing its study."
The full report can be viewed here.