Winter 2023 Lyceum Series

Building a Sustainable Future: Preserving What Exists

Tuesday, March 21 at 7:00

$5 / students free

As New York sets an ambitious climate leadership and greenhouse gas reduction agenda, the importance of including existing building preservation and reuse is often overlooked. Studies have demonstrated that renovating existing buildings reduces carbon emissions more than new construction. New construction accounts for 13% of energy-related emissions, while construction and demolition generates more than twice the amount of municipal solid waste. In other words, if you believe in carrying a reusable water bottle or coffee cup, prioritize driving an energy-efficient car, or recycle your newspapers, you should also believe in the use and preservation of our existing buildings.

This talk will delve into the importance of historic preservation as a key part of a climate-friendly and sustainable future, from the small steps like storm window installation to the larger implications of our economy’s drive to prioritize new construction. 

Erin Tobin joined Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH) as Executive Director in 2021. Prior to AARCH, Erin spent 14 years at the Preservation League of New York State, serving as the League’s Vice President for Policy and Preservation.