Welcome to the GBA Newsroom! In our effort to inspire the creation of healthy and high-performance spaces throughout Western Pennsylvania, we’re committed to sharing our region’s story through products, practices, and people. See below for recent news coverage of our organization, as well as our own press releases and announcements. Meanwhile, follow our blog for green perspectives from staff members and friends.
2018 Coverage
Live storytelling about Pittsburgh will fire you up at GBA’s Inspire Speakers Series
January 9, 2019 / NEXTPittsburgh / Bill O’Toole
NEXT Up: Jenna Cramer on making all Pittsburgh neighborhoods sustainable
December 19, 2018 / NEXTPittsburgh / Jennifer Baron
Will Erie tackle climate change, improve the city?
December 18, 2018 / Erie Times-News / Anna McCartney
Biking in Pittsburgh, the Next Frontier
October 24, 2018 / WESA/ Margaret J. Krauss
How Pittsburgh stays at the cutting edge of energy conservation
October 11, 2018 / NEXTPittsburgh / Bill O’Toole
City Rising 2: The Future of Green Buildings with Angelica Ciranni
October 10, 2018 / Green Philly Blog / Julie Hancher
The Confluence: Interview with Jenna Cramer
September 27, 2018 / WESA / Kevin Gavin
25 years, 25 green buildings. See them all here.
August 22, 2018 / NEXTPittsburgh / Bill O’Toole
Green Building Alliance survey aims to find how Pittsburgh-area commuters get to work
August 12, 2018 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Ed Blazina
City, County Officials Launch ‘Make My Trip Count’ Survey
August 11, 2018 / CBS Pittsburgh
Sustainability tips for your kitchen renovation
August 2, 2018 / Grok Nation / Esther D. Kustanowitz
Siefken tapped as executive director of CMU’s Scott Institute
July 31, 2018 / Pittsburgh Business Times / Patty Tascarella
A first for BCJ: Pittsburgh center earns Living Building certification
July 27, 2018 / Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce
‘We will not serve or pay for meat:’ WeWork takes the green workplace to a new level
July 17, 2018 / The Washington Post / Jena McGregor
Pittsburgh is no longer a smoky city, but that doesn’t mean it has cleaned up its act
July 19, 2018 / PublicSource / Oliver Morrison
The Quiet Ones: PEC & GBA – Caring For Two Environments
June 19, 2018 / YouTube / West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund
Report: 86,000+ Pennsylvanians Now Work in Clean Energy
June 19, 2018 / PR Newswire
Pittsburgh Approves Ambitious Climate Action Plan Update
June 13, 2018 / NRDC / Katharine McCormick
Pitt taps GBA’s Sharrard as its first director of sustainability
June 7, 2018 / Pittsburgh Business Times / Patty Tascarella
Green Building Alliance leader going to Pitt as school’s first sustainability director
June 7, 2018 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Joyce Gannon
After long delay, PA. building codes get an update
May 30, 2018 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Laura Legere
Pittsburgh 2030 District Helps Create a More Sustainable City
May 18, 2018 / Buildings / Angelica Ciranni
Children’s Museum plans museum lab
May 16, 2018 / Pittsburgh Business Times / Laurie Bailey
Pittsburgh for the Win: The ‘Steel City’ Ranks First for the Most Buildings Committed to Conservation
April 26, 2018 / EnergyManager Today / Beth Holbrook
Pittsburgh leads the way in raising healthy building standards through the 2030 District
April 20, 2018 / NEXTPittsburgh / NEXT Staff
Green Building Alliance reveals new progress report for 2030 District
April 19, 2018 / Pittsburgh Business Times / Tim Schooley
NEXT Up: Talking sustainable development — from Hazelwood Green to the Adirondacks — with Rebecca Flora
February 28, 2018 / NEXTPittsburgh / Jennifer Baron
Discover how biophilia can inspire healthy places at these GBA events
February 27, 2018 / NEXTPittsburgh / Jennifer Baron
Could Your Building’s Design Affect Your Health
February 26, 2018 / EnergyManager Today / Jessica Sinichak
2017 Coverage
A look at Pittsburgh’s Climate Action Plan
December 20, 2017 / City Paper / Bill O’Driscoll
Within four walls: Pittsburgh’s climate problem starts indoors
December 18, 2017 / PublicSource / Oliver Morrison
First Person: Climate Repair-A Long Haul
October 28, 2017 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Christina Schmidlapp
After Hours: CEC’s Cocktail Party, Penn State’s Hometown Hall of Famer, GBA’s Emerald Evening and Allegheny County Bar Association’s meeting
October 2017 / Pittsburgh Business Times
Announcing the Top “Sustainable” Employers in Southwestern PA: Winners of the Green Workplace Challenge
September 15, 2017 / Sustainable Pittsburgh / Ginette Walker Vinski
Clean Energy Jobs On The Rise In Allegheny County
September 6, 2017 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Daniel Moore
Despite greater scrutiny, depth of schools’ lead problem unclear
September 2, 2017 / TribLive / Natasha Lindstrom
Sustainable Design: Two Projects that are Much Greener than Green
August 30, 2017 / Pittsburgh Business Times / Ethan Lott
Pittsburgh’s Cleantech Leadership Flowering
August 24, 2017 / Clean Technica / Carolyn Fortuna
Pittsburgh: Leading Green Building Hub?
August 21, 2017 / Triple Pundit / Leon Kaye
Pittsburgh: Leading Green Building Hub?
August 21, 2017 / greengopost / Leon Kaye
Vote Allows for Continuation of Mon Fayette Expressway
June 26, 2017 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Ed Blazina
Last Leg of the Mon Fayette Expressway OK’d
June 26, 2017 / Tribune Review / Theresa Clift
Speakers Series Highlights Important Role of Urban Agriculture
June 19, 2017 / Trellis
What can Pittsburgh, by itself, do on climate change?
June 14, 2017 / CityPaper / Bill O’Driscoll
Shaler Area High School Wins Phipps Competition
June 12, 2017 / TribLive / Erica Cebzanov
Can urban farming strengthen Pittsburgh’s underserved communities?
June 1, 2017 / NEXTPittsburgh / Amanda Waltz
Pittsburgh leads North America in properties committed to 50 percent reductions in energy, water, emissions by 2030
May 29, 2017 / zilient / Aurora Sharrard
Pittsburgh 2030 District is dominating North America, and growing
May 1, 2017 / NEXTPittsburgh / Brian Conway
1,000 Hours a Year initiative will help local school test for lead and radon
April 27, 2017 / NEXTPittsburgh / Brian Conway
Pittsburgh groups to ride schools and child care centers of lead, radon
April 28, 2017 / Pittsburgh Tribune Review / Theresa Clift
This new initiative will help Pittsburgh-area schools and pre-schools test for lead and radon
April 27, 2017 / Public Source / Stephen Caruso
Pittsburgh Environmental Groups Launch Initiative to Help Schools and Child-Care Facilities Address Lead and Radon
April 27, 2017 / CityPaper / Rebecca Addision
Pittsburgh 2030 District is Dominating North America, and Growing
May 1, 2017 / NEXTPittsburgh / Brian Conway
Pittsburgh 2030 District Shows Participation Growth, Millions in Savings
April 26, 2017 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Diana Nelson Jones.
GBA Expands 2030 Boundaries
April 26, 2017 / Pittsburgh Business Times / Tim Schooley
Pittsburgh Receives Top Certification from Sustainable Pennsylvania
March 27, 2017 / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / Diana Nelson Jones
What Walmart, Ford, ILFI and Green Building Alliance Are Doing to Make Manufacturing Profitable, Sustainable
March 21, 2017 / Environmental Leader / Jessica Lyons Hardcastle
2016 Coverage
Can we transform the built environment by 2030?
Published on June 30, 2016 in GreenBiz, written by Monica Kanojia.
Pittsburgh Excels in the 2030 Challenge
Published on June 9, 2016 in Energy Manager Today, written by Carl Weinschenk.
Pittsburgh is #1 among 2030 District Cities. Here’s why that’s a big deal.
Published on June 6, 2016 in NEXTpittsburgh, written by NEXT Staff.
Short List: May 18-24
Published on May 18, 2016 in Pittsburgh City Paper, written by CP Staff.
Pittsburgh buildings participating in energy savings effort surpass goals for 2015
Published on April 29, 2016 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Diana Nelson Jones.
Pittsburgh Buildings On Track To Reach Sustainability Goals Early
Published on April 29, 2016 in WESA, written by Liz Reid.
Pittsburgh 2030 District ahead of schedule for targeted reductions
Published on April 28, 2016 in Pittsburgh Business-Times, written by Tim Schooley.
Harrisburg eyes new uses for unspent green building funds
Published on April 19, 2016 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette PowerSource, written by Laura Legere.
BNY Mellon achieves carbon neutral status
Published on April 18, 2016 in Pittsburgh Business Times, written by Paul Gough.
CMU Sustainability Weekend explores ways to conserve energy
Published on April 3, 2016 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Diana Nelson Jones.
Allegheny Land Trust, Green Building Alliance projects win awards
Recycled on March 22, 2016 in Tech Investor News.
Allegheny Land Trust, Green Building Alliance projects win awards
Published on March 22, 2016 in Pittsburgh Business Times, written by Paul Gough.
Fourteen Environmental Stewardship Projects Earn Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence
Published on March 21, 2016 in PR Newswire.
Downtown, Oakland to darken Saturday during Earth Hour
Published on March 18, 2016 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Short List: March 2-6
Published on March 2, 2016 in Pittsburgh City Paper, written by CP Staff.
EvolveEA architecture firm distinguished by grasp of environmentally friendly practices
Published on February 22, 2016 in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, written by David Conti.
Metro Briefs February 11: Repair the World, Green Building Alliance and p4 Pittsburgh
Published on February 11, 2016 in The Jewish Chronicle.
GBA’s Dream(y) Bike Room
Published on February 1, 2016 in BikePGH.
“Make My Trip Count” Commuter Survey Results Are In!
Published on January 25, 2016 in Only in Oakland, written by Rose Savage.
Commuter survey shows higher percentage of bikers among city participants
Published on January 22, 2016 in Pittsburgh City Paper Blogh, written by Ryan Deto.
Making Our Trips Count
Published on January 21, 2016 in PCRG, written by Sarah Slater.
Commuters’ toll: A survey sheds light on Pittsburgh travel habits
Published on January 20, 2016, written by Editorial Board.
Alliance looks for energy efficiency
Published on January 19, 2016 in Go Erie, written by Anna McCartney.
Most commuters travel alone by car, according to survey
Published on January 16, 2016 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Diana Nelson Jones.
Press Release: Making Our Trips Count
Published on January 15, 2016 in PCRG, written by Chris Sandvig.
Survey: Many Pittsburgh commuters use vehicle, light rail and bus
Published on January 14, 2016 in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, written by Melissa Daniels.
Downtown, Oakland Still Biggest Destinations For Pittsburgh Commuters
Published on January 14, 2016 in WESA, written by Deanna Garcia.
Survey says: 8.6% of City Residents’ Commute Trips are by Bike!
Published on January 14, 2016 in BikePGH.
2015 Coverage
Pittsburgh ‘Internet of things’ startup ready to pitch energy saving to city officials
Published on December 29, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Kris B. Mamula.
Green education initiative launched by Spectrum Charter School
Published on December 18, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Kathleen Ganster.
Pennsylvania ethics officials crack down on lobbyists
Published on November 11, 2015 in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, written by Kari Andren.
Spectrum Charter in Monroeville gets ‘Green Flag Award’
Published on November 4, 2015 in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, written by Gideon Bradshaw.
Lynn M. Banaszak named Athena Award Winner
Published on October 9, 2015 in Pittsburgh Business Times, written by Paul Gough.
Make My Trip Count survey
Published on October 7, 2015 in Pittsburgh for Public Transit, written by Molly Nichols.
PNC’s new office tower is green – but just how green?
Published on October 7, 2015 in Pittsburgh City Paper, written by Charles Rosenblum.
From Musk to dusk: a lineup not to miss at GPNP Summit
Published on October 6, 2015 in NEXTpittsburgh, written by Jennifer Baron.
Diana Nelson Jones’ Walkabout: Best route to good commuting options: Take survey
Published on October 6, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Diana Nelson Jones.
Green Building Alliance Recognized For Energy Reduction Program
Published on October 5, 2015 in WESA, written by Sarah Schneider.
Breaking Ground Green Building Update – No Turning Back
Published on October 1, 2015 in Breaking Ground, written by Jeff Burd.
A new survey explores reducing congestion in Pittsburgh
Published on September 23, 2015 in Pittsburgh City Paper, written by Bill O’Driscoll.
City survey asks how you get to work, school
Published on September 22, 2015 in South Pittsburgh Reporter.
City Officials Want To Know About Pittsburghers’ Commutes
Published on September 15, 2015 in WESA, written by Deanna Garcia.
Killer commute?: Pittsburgh wants to know how you get to the city
Published on September 15, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Editorial Board.
Commuter Survey Could Help Shape City’s Transportation Future
Published on September 14, 2015 in KDKA, written by Lynne Hayes-Freeland.
Peduto announces online survey focusing on Pittsburgh commuters
Published on September 14, 2015 in Pittsburgh Business Times, written by Tim Schooley.
What do you think of your commute? Pittsburgh officials create survey
Published on September 14, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Kim Lyons.
Pittsburgh launches online survey to learn commuter habits
Published on September 14, 2015 in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Meet the 2015 ATHENA nominees and finalists
Published on September 8, 2015 in NEXTpittsburgh, written by NEXT staff.
Top 5: Largest Pittsburgh-region LEED-certified
Published on August 3, 2015 in Pittsburgh Business-Times, written by Ethan Lott.
Energy Spotlight: Aurora Sharrard
Published on July 12, 2015 in Pittsburgh-Tribune Review, written by David Conti.
Developers, Pittsburgh leaders set sights on more energy-efficient homes
Published on June 20, 2015 in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, written by Bob Karlovits.
As green buildings evolve, latest survey ranks Pittsburgh in middle of pack
Published on June 9, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Power Source, written by Daniel Moore.
Unfinished Business
Published in June, 2015 in H Magazine (Page 21),written by Christine O’Toole.
What’s working in the energy-conserving Pittsburgh 2030 District?
Published on May 27, 2015 in Pittsburgh City Paper, written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Essential Pittsburgh: Wilkinsburg School District Seeks Partner for Middle School Education
Published on May 19, 2015, in WESA’s Essential Pittsburgh, written by Paul Guggenheimer.
Essential Pittsburgh: Keeping Pittsburgh a ‘Happy City’ Through Experiment & Design
Published on May 12, 2015 in WESA’s Essential Pittsburgh, written by Paul Guggenheimer.
Public-Private Partnership Sees Energy Use Drop
Published on May 2, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Don Hopey.
Update on Energy-Conserving Pittsburgh 2030 District
Published on April 30, 2015 in the Pittsburgh City Paper Blogh, written by Bill O’Driscoll.
More Buildings Signing up for Energy Reduction Initiative
Published on April 24, 2015 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, written by Tim Schooley.
Drilling in Frick Park mines heating source for new center
Published on April 21, 2015 on Bakken.com, written by Don Hopey.
Drilling in Frick Park Mines Heating Source for New Center
Published on April 20, 2015 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Don Hopey. Re-posted on Bakken.com.
URA to Reduce Energy Consumption by 80 Percent in SouthSide Works Garages
Published on April 14, 2015 in the South Pittsburgh Reporter.
Energy Consumption to Drop at URA Parking Garages Thanks to Lighting Upgrades
Published and aired on April 13, 2015 on 90.5 WESA, reported by Deanna Garcia.
Key Obama Campaign Consultant Speaks at Hill House Tomorrow
Published on April 8, 2015 on Pittsburgh City Paper’s Blogh, written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Earth Hour will Darken Pittsburgh’s Skyline Saturday
Published on March 27, 2015 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, written by Don Hopey.
Pittsburgh Organizations To Turn Off Their Lights For Earth Hour
Published and aired on March 25 on 90.5 WESA, reported by Marcus Charleston and Jessica Nath.
Urban Farming Pioneer Will Allen: “It’s All About the Soil”
Published on March 17, 2015 on NEXTpittsburgh, written by Drew Cranisky.
CMU & IBM Launch First Cloud-based Analytics Partnership for Smarter Buildings
Published on March 16, 2015 on Intelligent Building Today, written by Leighann Morris.
Pittsburgh’s Food Supply: The Haves and Have Nots
Published on March 10, 2015 on Pittsburgh Magazine’s Eat Street blog, written by Hal B. Klein.
CMU to Save Millions in Energy Costs Annually
Published on March 5, 2015 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s PowerSource, written by Daniel Moore.
Welcome to the New Pittsburgh: A City Transformed
Published in the February 2015 issue of Pittsburgh Magazine, written by Dennis Roddy.
The Power of Purpose: 6 Pittsburgh “B Corps” on a Mission
Published on January 13, 2015 on NEXTpittsburgh, Written by Gina Mazza.
2014 Coverage
Blue Mind: How Our Water Can Build Community and Improve Health
Published on December 2, 2014 on NEXTpittsburgh, Written by Deb Smit.
40 Under 40 Awards
Published in the November 2014 Issue of Pittsburgh Magazine.
Emerald Evening 2014
Published in the November 2014 Issue of Whirl Magazine (p.42), Written by Andrea Bosco.
Blue Mind: How Water Improves Our Quality of Life
Published on November 12, 2014 on Essential Pittsburgh, 90.5 WESA by Heather McClain.
Seeking a Sharing Economy to Serve Diversity
Published on October 24, 2014 on The Allegheny Front, 90.5 WESA.
Greenlife PA – Green Building Alliance
Published on October 23, 2014 on WVIA Greenlife PA, by Kris Hendrickson.
Dero Dream Bike Room Contest: BikeTexas and Green Building Alliance are Both Winners
Published on October 21, 2014 on PR Web.
Oakland’s About to Get Really Green: Pittsburgh 2030 District
Published on October 16, 2014 on NEXTpittsburgh, Written by Margaret Krauss.
A Brief Interview with Sean from the Pittsburgh Office of Green Building Alliance
Published on October 9, 2014 on Downtown Pittsburgh Life, Written by Michael Pellas.
Shareable and Sustainable Cities for Everyone
Published on October 8, 2014 on Essential Pittsburgh, 90.5 WESA by Heather McClain.
Short List (October 1-9): Dr. Antwi Akom
Published on October 1, 2014 in Pittsburgh City Paper, Written by Bill O’Driscoll
Phipps Executive Director Richard V. Piacentini Received Green Building Alliance Legacy Award
Published on October 1, 2014 in Techburg, Written by Andy Quayle
New Tools for Smart Data Collection
Published on October 1, 2014 in UBM Future Cities, Written by Jordan Fradde
An Evening with the Stars at the Alliance to Save Energy’s Annual Awards Event
Published on September 26, 2014 on USGBC Articles, Written by Jeremy Sigmon.
About Pittsburgh’s Low Ranking for Green Square Footage
Published on September 25, 2014 in The Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley
Oakland Takes on Energy Challenge
Published on September 5, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley.
Carlow Eyes Energy Reductions in $15.7 Million Renovation Project
Published on September 2, 2014 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Power Source, Written by Larry Roberts.
Going Green
Published in the September 2014 Issue of Mt. Lebanon Magazine, Written by Katelynn Metz.
Pittsburgh Green Building Alliance Emerald Evening Awards Dinner Sept. 25
Published in September 2014 on www.northcentralpa.com.
Pittsburgh 2030 District Expands to Oakland
Published on August 29, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Business Briefs.
Oakland Joins Energy Reduction Efforts
Aired on August 28 and 29, 2014 on 90.5 WESA News and 91.3 WYEP, Reported by Erika Beras.
Oakland 2030 District Launches with More Than 80 Percent of Neighborhood’s Property Committed
Published on August 28, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley.
Pittsburgh 2030 District Mention in Real Estate Notes
Published on August 23, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Written by Sam Spatter.
Pittsburgh 2030 District Raises the Bar for Sustainability
Aired on August 17, 2014 on WPXI Our Region’s Business.
Oakland 2030 District launches with more than 80 percent of neighborhood’s property committed
Published on August 28, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, written by Tim Schooley.
Pittsburgh 2030 District Expands into Oakland
Published on August 23 2014 in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Real Estate Notes.
Pittsburgh 2030 District Raises the Bar for Sustainability
Aired on August 17, 2014 on WPXI’s Our Region’s Business.
Energy-saving program spreads from Downtown to Oakland
Published on August 8, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Written by Sam Spatter.
Pittsburgh 2030 District to Add Oakland
Published on August 8, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley.
In brief: Hot Metal Flats, Green Design Awards, and More
Published in NextPittsburgh on June 16, 2014, Written by Matthew Wein.
Pittsburgh Aggressively Reduces Energy and Water
Published on June 2, 2014 in BUILDINGS Magazine.
Photo from the Inspire Speakers Series
Published in the June 2014 issue of Whirl Magazine.
Green Building Alliance – NWPA Video
Published on May 14, 2014 in Pennsylvania News & Buzz.
Schiller “Reaching People Where They’re At”
Published on May 9, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Kris Mamula.
Loftness Designs Ways to Integrate Nature into Buildings
Published on May 9, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Meghan Holohan.
Luther Translates Green Benefits for Developers
Published on May 9, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Kris Mamula.
Dero Dream Bike Room Contest Winner: Bike Texas
Published on May 8, 2014 on Intercooler Online.
Mayor Attends City Development Trip in Germany
Published on May 6, 2014 in The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Written by Moriah Balinglit
Peduto Visits Germany on Trade Trip
Published on May 6, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley.
Wednesday Rundown: A Greener Downtown and Equality in the Workplace
Aired on April 23, 2014 on 90.5 WESA’s Essential Pittsburgh, Posted by Marcus Charleston.
Dero Dream Bike Room Contest Finalists Announced: Green Building Alliance and BikeTexas
Aired on April 23, 2014 on Digital Journal.
Pittsburgh’s 2030 District Hits 2015 Target Ahead of Schedule
Published on April 21, 2014 in Eco Building Pulse, Written by Katie Weeks.
Pittsburgh 2030 District Ahead of Schedule for Energy-Use Reductions
Published on April 18, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley.
Downtown Energy Conservation Initiative Reports Results
Published on April 18, 2014 on the Pittsburgh City Paper Blog, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Pittsburgh Buildings Ahead in 2030 Goals
Published on April 17, 2014 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Power Source, Written by Anya Litvak.
How Green is Downtown Pittsburgh?
Published on April 17, 2014 on NEXTpittsburgh, Written by Deb Smit.
Local 2030 District Ahead of Goal to Reduce Energy
Published on April 17, 2014 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Business Briefs.
Inspire Speakers Series: Dr. John Francis
Published in the April 9 – 17, 2014 Edition of Pittsburgh City Paper’s Short List, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
How is Russia Doing in Terms of Development of Green Buildings?
Aired on April 4, 2014 on Voice of Russia Radio, Reported by John Harrison.
Pittsburgh Buildings Go Dark for Earth Hour
Published on April 3, 2014 in the Duquesne Duke, Written by Jen Cardone.
Downtown Participants Sought for Saturday’s Earth Hour
Published on March 27, 2014 in the Pittsburgh City Paper Blog, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Green School Designs of the Future
Posted on January 20, 2014 on the Erie TV News website, Reported by Lisa Adams.
Inspire Speakers Series: David Sobel
Published in the January 8 – 16, 2014 Edition of Pittsburgh City Paper’s Short List, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
2013 Coverage
The Russians are Coming
Published in the November 27 – December 5, 2013 Edition of Pittsburgh City Paper’s Short List, Written by Bill O’Driscoll
If you don’t associate Russia with green buildings, you’re not entirely wrong: The push to make high-performing structures that are kinder to the environment and nicer for people to inhabit is just getting started there. Mike Schiller, who heads Pittsburgh’s Green Building Alliance, learned as much on his speaking tour there this past summer.
Schiller Says “Building Green Can Save Green”
Published on October 4, 2013 in the New Pittsburgh Courier, Written by Editorial Staff
Mike Schiller, CEO of Pittsburgh’s Green Building Alliance told the audience at the African American Chamber of Commerce Power Breakfast that whether Catastrophic Global Warming theory is correct or not, or even if no one can really define what “green” is, it still makes bottom-line sense to build that way because waste can be expensive.
Pittsburgh’s Green Building Alliance Makes Recycling Easier than Throwing Away
Published on September 27, 2013 on Recycling @ Work, an Initiative of Keep America Beautiful
“One thing we’ve done is provide recycling bins that are larger than our garbage bin. This is one way to remind employees that most of their waste should go into the recycling and composting bins,” says Leslie Montgomery.
Green Building Alliance Celebrates Anniversary
Published on September 24, 20133 on the Pittsburgh Post Gazette’s Website
The Green Building Alliance celebrated its 20th anniversary Sept. 12 at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
BNY Mellon Sustainability Achievements a Boost to Pittsburgh’s Green Appeal
Posted on September 19, 2013 on 4-Traders via PR Newswire.
BNY Mellon is a charter member of the Pittsburgh 2030 District in which the region’s commercial property owners and managers work collaboratively to attain sustainability targets and support the city’s legacy as a national leader in green buildings.
Green Building Comes Back to High Performance
Published in the September/October 2013 Issue of Breaking Ground Magazine (p. 15), Written by Jeff Burd.
“GBA and I would make the argument that there are lots of ways to become a green building – we should stop saying green building because we really mean a green place or space – and there are lots of ways that you should think about a green space beyond your building,” says Mike Schiller, GBA’s CEO.
Designing Down Demand
Published on August 21, 2013 in Pittsburgh City Paper, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Pittsburgh, which last week hosted the inaugural 2030 Districts Summit, boasts one of just four 2030 Districts… Pittsburgh’s year-old district, administered by the Green Building Alliance, includes 100 buildings and more than half the square footage in its central business district; participants include PNC, Alcoa, Highmark and the City of Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh’s Downtown Office Buildings Take On 2030 District Efficiency Challenge
Published on August 9, 2013 by The Allegheny Front, Written by Kara Holsopple
The Allegheny Front follows a tour of 11 Stanwix, as partners of the Pittsburgh 2030 District learn about various ways to implement changes, and the benefits that can result from energy and water reductions
Pittsburgh 2030 District Challenge
Published on August 8, 2013 by Essential Pittsburgh, Written by John Lavanga
A discussion with GBA’s Sean Luther, on where the Pittsburgh 2030 District is one year after its launch. Exceeding 50% participation and hosting the first national 2030 Districts Summit are some examples of the success the District has seen over the past year.
The Hanley Foundation Salutes Edward Mazria and The 2030 Districts Summit August 12-13 in Pittsburgh, PA
Published on August 8, 2013 by Digital Journal
The Hanley Foundation celebrates the work of Edward Mazria and the work he’s doing to change the built environment through the 2030 Challenge.
National 2030 District Summit coming to Pittsburgh
Published on July 31, 2013 by Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Louis A. Corsaro
Pittsburgh will host the first national 2030 Districts Summit, which will feature a public keynote address by Ed Mazria.
Newest “Cool Roof” to be Painted this Weekend on the North Side
Aired on July 25, 2013 on 90.5 WESA, Reported by Deanna Garcia.
“A cool roof is, in this case, a roof that is painted with white paint rather than the traditional black or dark paint roofs are traditionally painted with,” said Leslie Montgomery, spokeswoman for the Green Building Alliance. “It reflects the sun so it can decrease the temperature of the building and make it more energy efficient.”
Benefits to Entering the Cloud
Published on July 5, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Dan Dillman.
As with the matter of the safety of documents, it is widely recognized that going paperless is environmentally responsible… This could be particularly helpful to downtown companies participating in the Green Building Alliance’s Pittsburgh 2030 District, an effort to reduce energy, water and transportation emissions by 2030.
Green Building Alliance Aims for Healthier Schools
Published on June 28, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Ethan Lott.
As the vice president of green schools with the Green Building Alliance, Jenna Cramer works with educators to develop new ways to marry the educational goals of schools with the benefits of making them greener and healthier in general through its Green Schools Academy.
LEED-ing to Green Pastures
Published on June 28, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Ethan Lott.
Six years ago, the Business Times compiled its first list of LEED-certified/green projects and buildings.
LEED-Certified Projects Keep Pittsburgh “Green”
Slideshow published on June 28, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times.
Debating Merits of Energy-Disclosure Laws
Published on May 31, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Aurora Sharrard.
Should a building’s annual energy and water usage and expenses be accessible to potential buyers or tenants? For commercial buildings? For public properties? For homes? Or is utility consumption private data?
Pennsylvania’s Five Coolest Green Buildings
Published on May 16, 2013 in Keystone Edge, Written by Elise Vider.
These buildings are flooded with natural light, incorporate beautiful, natural materials and co-exist with innovative landscaping schemes.
Greener Together
Published on May 15, 2013 in Pittsburgh City Paper, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
If the federal government is shirking its duty to act on climate change, we figure, locals must lead.
CleanTech Investment Fund: A Green Bank for a Greener Pittsburgh
Published on May 5, 2013 on www.billpeduto.com, Written by Bill Peduto.
Pittsburgh’s Green Building Alliance was the beginning of a revolution for our city. The first affiliate of the U.S. Green Building Council to be created in the country, the Pittsburgh Green Building Alliance opened its doors in 1993 and has transformed the way we think about the built environment.
In the Spotlight: Best Practices Make Perfect
Published on May 3, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Written by Joyce Gannon.
PNC’s nationally recognized commitment to operating efficient buildings has helped raise their profile around the country concurrent with their transformation from a regional bank into a national financial services provider,” said Sean Luther, director of the alliance’s Pittsburgh 2030 District.
Senate Panel Approves Bills to Expand Natural Gas Services
Published on May 3, 2013 on The Allegheny Front, Written by Marie Cusick
A pair of bills moving through the state legislature aim to give consumers more access to Pennsylvania’s abundant natural gas reserves.
Walkabout: Pittsburgh Couple Energized by Idea of Home with High Efficiency
Published on April 30, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Written by Diana Nelson Jones.
Cheap energy has been a curse through American history, when most construction was not — and still isn’t — configured to use energy optimally. Now those costs are rising.
PNC: Green Groundbreaker, the Financial Giant Creates the World’s Greenest Building
Published on April 23, 2013 in the Point Park News Service, Written by Veronica Kropf.
In 1998, when Rebecca Flora heard on the radio that PNC Financial Services Inc. was beginning construction on what became its Firstside Center in downtown Pittsburgh, she decided to make a chance phone call to see if the company would consider employing sustainable business practices.
Green & Gold: Pens Strike it Rich in Energy Efficiency
Published on April 23, 2013 in the Point Park News Service, Written by Alexandra Perry.
Before the Pittsburgh Penguins had a serious discussion about turning the all-new CONSOL Energy Center green, most of their intentions were built around cost consciousness, not sustainability.
Congratulations, Pittsburgh 2030 District, You’re Half Way There!
Posted on April 22, 2013 on Leslie Saul & Associates, Inc.
For the most part, the green design movement has been grass roots-based. Only recently have municipalities begun to jump on the bandwagon to get involved.
For Well-Traveled Schiller, GBA is Feeling Like Home
Published on April 19, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Tim Schooley.
As a serial entrepreneur himself, Mike Schiller knew what to keep in mind more than two years ago when he replaced the Green Building Alliance’s founder as CEO.
Diamond Award Honorees Celebrated
Published on April 19, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Lou Corsaro.
Sixteen of the region’s top company leaders were recognized at Thursday’s Diamond Awards ceremony at the Duquesne Club, downtown.
Pittsburgh’s Sustainability Around Every Corner
Published on April 19, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Leslie Montgomery.
The Green Building Alliance — the regional chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council — views sustainable building design as any effort made to create and maintain a healthy and high-performing building. Examples can be found all over our city, and you can either pursue one of these methods or adapt any of them to fit your needs.
Building Momentum
Published on April 17, 2013 in Pittsburgh City Paper, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Richard Leigh, a physicist and engineer, once labored to improve the efficiency of boilers and air conditioners. But facing the enormous stresses that human energy use imposes on the planet, he tired of “making something better by 10 percent.”
Urban Renewal: How Pittsburgh Could Save the World… Or at Least Itself
Published on April 17, 2013 in Pittsburgh City Paper.
One local initiative, the Pittsburgh 2030 District, is encouraging Downtown property owners to halve their energy use by 2030.
Inspire Speakers Series: Majora Carter
Published in the April 2 – 11 Edition of Pittsburgh City Paper’s Short List, Written by Bill O’Driscoll.
Majora Carter rose to prominence by advocating for — and achieving — green development in her South Bronx community, everything from job training to a new riverfront park.
2013 Business Women First, Aurora Sharrard
Published on March 15, 2013 by Pittsburgh Business Times, Written by Louis A. Corsaro
After graduating from Tulane University in Louisiana, Aurora Sharrard began practicing as a geotechnical engineer, doing a lot of construction-site work…
Pittsburgh’s 2030 District Gets Big Business (and Small Business) on Board with Healthy and High Performing Buildings
Published on March 15, 2013 by USGBC, Written by Leslie Montgomery
Pittsburgh has long worked to overcome its reputation as a steel town. The city has made great progress over the years; it now ranks #14 nationally for the number of LEED-certified buildings, places at the top of many “Most Livable Cities” lists, and boasts an impressive collection of universities with leading sustainability initiatives. The recently launched Pittsburgh 2030 District…
The Pittsburgh 2030 District
Published on March 15, 2013 by All Facilities Energy Group, Written by Cole Williams
Considering the fact that most Americans spend 90% of their lives inside a building, it should come as no surprise that our buildings represent a large energy problem.The built environment consumes 50% of total energy, 70% of electricity, and produces 38% of all greenhouse gas emissions. These figures, produced by the GBA, mean that buildings are a major pressure point..
Green Building Alliance promoting energy-efficient buildings Laurel Highlands
Published on March 10, 2013 by The Tribune Democrat, Written by Dave Sutor
There are at least a half-dozen Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified buildings throughout the local area. The Pittsburgh-based Green Building Alliance would like to see that number increase significantly…
Pittsburgh Reacts to Mayor Ravenstahl’s Announcement
Published on March 1, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Aurora Sharrard, vice president of innovation for the Green Building Alliance, said: “He and his staff have been very supportive of several things, starting with the Green Government Task Force work that led to the Pittsburgh Climate Initiative. He continued Mayor O’Connor’s support for that. He hired the first sustainability coordinator that the city has ever had.”
Power Shift: Downtown Pittsburgh To Halve Energy Consumption by 2030
Published on February 22, 2103 by GOOD, Written by Deena Shanker
Anyone who has ever worked in an office knows this simple truth: these buildings use a lot of energy. Between the twenty-four hour lobby lights, the never ending use of paper, and the blasting heat or air conditioning, it probably doesn’t come as much of a surprise that according to the Center for Sustainable Systems at the University of Michigan, in 2011, commercial buildings consumed 19 percent…
Smart Buildings: Old or New, Pittsburgh’s Structures Can Save Energy
Published on February 18, 2013 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Editorial Section
Sean Luther, who heads the Pittsburgh 2030 District for the Green Building Alliance, said there are 550 buildings in Pittsburgh’s target zone, with 92 of them committed to the effort.
PA Green Building Legislative Update
Published on February 11, 2103 by The Pennsylvania General Assembly
On February 11, the High-Performance State Buildings Standards Act (HB 34) was passed by a 163 to 32 vote. The bill – which provides for the creation of high-performance building standards – will now go to the Senate, where it should be referred to the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee in the near future. The bill was sponsored by Representative Kate Harper from Montgomery County. Stay tuned for more details as this bill goes to the Senate.
Pittsburgh’s 2030 District Participation Reaches Halfway Point
Published on February 7, 2013 by Eco Building Pulse, Written by Katie Weeks
The Pittsburgh 2030 District, which aims to have 100 percent of downtown Pittsburgh property owners commit to reducing their water and energy use and transportation emissions by 50 percent by 2030, is halfway to its signatory goal. On Feb. 1, the nonprofit organization Green Building Alliance (GBA), which is spearheading the initiative, announced that 31 property owners representing nearly 28 million square feet—half of the square footage in the designated 2030 District…
Pittsburgh Companies Cut Energy Use in Downtown Buildings
Published on February 6, 2013 by Energy Manager Today, Written by Linda Hardesty
Four more partners have joined the Pittsburgh 2030 District, a collaborative of public and private organizations, working to create a high-performance building district in downtown Pittsburgh.The newcomers are Heinz Field, US Steel Tower, properties of Point Park University and the…
Heinz Field among those joining Pittsburgh 2030 energy-saving effort
Published on February 5, 2013 by Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Written by Mark Belko
With the newest additions, one Pittsburgh list is becoming a little less exclusive. And that’s a good thing. Heinz Field, U.S. Steel Tower and properties of Point Park University and the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh have become the latest to be included in a campaign to cut energy, water and transportation consumption by 50 percent by the year…