Whether living in urban centers or rural farming towns, people are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of climate change on their lives. That concern is accelerating the growth of “green” building and energy efficiency initiatives. But Katelin Olson, Ph.D., visiting lecturer in Cornell University’s College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, says communities may be overlooking an equally important climate solution: sustainable historic preservation. By reusing the existing built environment, sustainable preservation is an essential tool for meeting climate goals.
“The greenest building continues to be the one already built,” says Olson, who is a certified planner. “As we seek greater energy efficiency, it is tempting to think we can build our way out of our environmental crisis. But that’s not a financially possible or reasonable solution.”
Read the full story on the Cornell Chronicle website.
Latest posts by Alexandra Maxian (see all)
- Cornell and Corporate Partners Recognized in Five Brandon Hall Award Categories - September 25, 2025
- Unlocking Second Chances: How eCornell and the Black Men Coalition Are Changing Lives After Incarceration - September 22, 2025
- Certificate brings Cornell food production expertise to entrepreneurs worldwide - January 27, 2023