Ramos, McKeon, DeAngelo & Wagner Bill Would Require ‘Green’ and ‘Blue’ Roofs on State-Developed Buildings
Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Ruben Ramos, Jr, John McKeon, Wayne DeAngelo, and Connie Wagner to boost the development of environmentally-friendly buildings was approved by an Assembly panel on Thursday.
“It’s time to start making forward-thinking, eco-friendly solutions a priority for today, not a promise for tomorrow,” said Ramos (D-Hudson). “When you consider the record amount of flooding we’ve received in recent years, it’s critical from both an environmental and fiscal sense that we incorporate measures that help regulate storm water runoff. Blue and Green roofs are a smart approach that will help save money in the long-term while also protecting our environment.”
The bill (A-710) would require, to the extent feasible, that any new state government building, facility, or structure with at least 15,000 square feet in total floor area be designed, constructed, and managed to include a functioning green roof or blue roof.
“Practicality and convenience do not have to be mutually exclusive,” said McKeon (D-Essex/Morris). “In the long run, buildings with environmentally-friendly designs end up saving more money. It’s time to start looking at the bigger picture and encouraging development with a conscience.”
Green and Blue Roofs use vegetation or mechanical devices, respectively, to prevent roof water from draining too quickly, not only improve storm water management but also provide cost saving opportunities, such as more efficient energy usage for heating and cooling.
“Green buildings mean greener communities, and a better quality of life for our residents,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “We need to start thinking about our long-term future and how we can protect our environment in a manner that is energy and cost efficient.”
The bill would also allow buildings to have solar panels, provided that the solar panels do not interfere with the functions of the green roof or blue roof.
“We need to do everything in our power to promote eco-friendly designs,” said Wagner (D-Bergen/Passaic). “While we cannot control private sector development in such a way, this is a great starting point to have the state serve as a model for conscientious design.”
The measure was approved by the Assembly Appropriations Committee and now awaits consideration by the full Assembly.