(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Wayne DeAngelo, Nancy Pinkin, Tim Eustace and L. Grace Spencer designed to encourage the creation of environmentally friendly buildings was recently approved, 71-3, by the Assembly.
The bill (A-2305) aims to promote the incorporation of blue and green roofs into the design of new and existing buildings. Blue and green roofs use vegetation or mechanical devices to prevent roof water from draining too quickly, not only to improve storm water management but also to provide cost saving opportunities such as more efficient energy usage for heating and cooling.
“It’s time to start making forward-thinking, eco-friendly solutions a priority for today, not a promise for tomorrow,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer, Middlesex). “Blue and green roofs are a smart approach that will help save money in the long-term while also protecting our environment.”
“Practicality and convenience do not have to be mutually exclusive,” said Pinkin (D-Middlesex). “In the long run, buildings with environmentally-friendly designs end up saving more money. Green buildings also mean greener communities and a better quality of life for our residents.”
The bill would require the Commissioner of Environmental Protection to periodically study the availability and efficiency of blue and green roofs as storm water management tools, and make, as necessary and appropriate, recommendations to the Governor that will help foster and maintain efficient and effective storm water management in the State.
The vote on Monday, December 15 approved recommendation made in a conditional veto and the bill will now return to the Senate.
“Given the fact that consideration will be given to projects that incorporate blue or green roofs, hopefully, more project developers will be encouraged to adopt this environmentally-conscious approach,” said Eustace (D-Bergen, Passaic). “We need to do everything in our power to promote eco-friendly designs.”
“Making smart design choices are critical to the future as we become better prepared for storms and other unpredictable weather occurrences,” said Spencer (D-Essex). “This legislation is a step in the right direction for New Jersey.”
The General Assembly passed A-2305, 65-9-3, earlier this year. The Senate approved it, 37-3, in June.