In the hustle and bustle of New York City, no one wakes up and proclaims, “What a great day to practice sustainability!” Well, maybe one or two eco-fanatics do, but most don’t.
New Yorkers, like many urban dwellers, prioritize meeting their daily goals in the most convenient and economical way possible. But here is the kinky twist: one person alone may not revolutionize sustainability, yet an entire metropolis like New York can.
Today, we will reveal how NYC is practicing sustainability on a grand scale. Whether you are a born-and-raised New Yorker or a recent transplant, you can follow the best practices for sustainable living too.
What Does Sustainable Living Mean in New York?
Whether it is in New York or any other place, sustainable living is a set of choices and actions that reduce harm to the environment, conserve resources, and promote a healthy and balanced life for both current and future generations.
The goal is to create a greener and more livable city. At the same time, people need to minimize their ecological footprint. For sustainable living, New Yorkers are following some practices and initiatives, such as:
- Using energy-efficient appliances – To reduce carbon emissions by retrofitting buildings, New York City implemented the NYC Retrofit Accelerator program. In 2020, it assisted over 5,000 buildings. This resulted in annual energy savings of approximately 320,000 MMBTUs (million British thermal units).
- Reducing waste – In 2020, New York collected and disposed of approximately 10,400 tons of waste daily, according to the Department of Sanitation. Sustainable living initiatives aim to divert waste from landfills. These include recycling programs, composting, and reducing single-use plastics.
- Adapting to renewable energy – New York City was actively promoting the use of renewable energy sources. By 2020, the city had installed over 100 MW of solar capacity. Compared to previous years, this was a major increase that contributed to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
- Using public transportation or walking instead of driving – New York City’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) reported that, it served over 5.5 million daily riders on subways and buses before the pandemic in 2019. This is how it became one of the most extensive and sustainable public transportation systems in the world.
- Supporting local and organic food sources – Before the pandemic, New York City had more than 138 farmers’ markets across the five boroughs. By offering locally grown and organic products, these markets support local agriculture. Indirectly, this initiative reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances.
- Participating in community efforts – Numerous community-based organizations in New York City often initiate programs for sustainable living. These include tree planting programs, cleanups, and park restorations. For example, MillionTreesNYC aimed to plant one million new trees across the city’s five boroughs.
Tips Followed By Eco-Conscious Individuals in New York
Now that you have an overall picture of New York’s sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle, it is time to look at the best tips for maintaining an eco-conscious attitude.
01. Reuse and Recycle Habits
It is always wise to reuse items like bags and containers instead of throwing them away. And the eco-conscious folks in New York have made a habit like that. In addition, they separate recyclables like paper, plastic, and glass from trash. This strategy opens up a clear path for proper recycling. Overall, this habit helps the environment by reducing waste.
02. Opt for Eco-Friendly Modes for Transportation
It is common to find multiple cars in a single American family. Using more cars or vehicles means more carbon emissions. Those who are a bit more eco-conscious in New York use public transportation instead of driving alone in cars. Mostly, they take buses and subways.
Furthermore, they may also choose to walk or bike when possible. Their contribution cuts down on air pollution and traffic congestion.
03. Visit Eco-Conscious Places
Eco-conscious individuals seek out places that prioritize sustainability. They like to spend time in green spaces and support environmentally responsible companies. At the same time, they appreciate the blessings of nature.
If you care about the environment, you should visit these environmentally conscious areas in New York when you are free.
- Ossining (Hudson Valley)
An eco-conscious haven for both residents and nature enthusiasts. Numerous green initiatives and natural attractions are proof of environmental sustainability. Contribute to preserving the beauty of the Hudson Valley by discovering an eco-conscious home in Ossining. Most properties in this area are equipped with solar panels and energy-efficient features.
- Governors Island (New York City)
This island has always been the focus of numerous sustainability and environmental initiatives. Almost every year, numerous events and programs are hosted to promote environmental awareness. Its park-like setting and car-free environment also contribute to its eco-conscious reputation.
- Lake George (Adirondacks)
Most of us know how much effort was made to maintain Lake George’s natural beauty and high water quality. Various organizations and local initiatives work to reduce pollution around the lake. Plus, they promote sustainable tourism in Lake George.
- Cooperstown (Central New York)
Apart from being located in Central New York, Cooperstown is praised by individuals for its natural beauty. Locals here try to maintain a commitment to preserving its historic and natural heritage. Moreover, the town and surrounding area have taken steps to protect their environment and promote sustainable tourism.
- Patchogue (Long Island)
Almost anyone knows that locals on Long Island have made strides in revitalizing the downtown area of Patchogue. They focus on durability and walkability for the revitalization of this area. They promote local businesses, encourage green transportation options, and host eco-conscious events.
04. Choose Farmer’s Market for Shopping
Driving a mile for everyday shopping is unnecessary when you can buy everything nearby. Sadly, people tend to do this for no reason. They are not aware that long-distance driving can lead to a higher carbon footprint, and eventually global warming. On the bright side, eco-conscious individuals prefer to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and other products from local farmer’s markets. By doing so, they not only support local farmers but also reduce their carbon footprint. What’s more, this type of act encourages the use of organic and sustainable farming practices.
05. Make Buildings with Green LEED Certifications
LEED stands for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.” It is a globally recognized rating system and certification program developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Some eco-conscious New Yorkers live or work in buildings with LEED certifications. Having these certifications means the buildings are designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Often, these constructions use things like solar panels, efficient insulation, and water-saving fixtures. This is an excellent way to reduce their impact on the planet.
If eco-conscious individuals in New York can continue to follow the above tips, they will surely promote a more sustainable way of living in the city. It would have been better if they had gotten more support from the government. In addition, they should raise awareness among the general public so that they can have more members on their team.
