By Ben Fractenberg
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
LOWER EAST SIDE— A small business on the Bowery that itself sells environmentally-friendly products has taken out the first honors in a new green award.
Green Depot, a supplier of green cleaning and home construction products, received the platinum rating for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) by New York state for its location at 222 Bowery, reported Crain’s New York.
“It's showing that green building can be done and is affordable,” Green Depot general manager Jim Holiber told Crain’s. “It improves the indoor air quality, and it's a more energy-efficient way to build.”
The supplier spent six months renovating the space, which was the first home of the YMCA in New York City. The building now contains high-efficiency air handling system and custom light fixtures, according to Crain’s. Green Depot also worked with the city’s Landmarks Preservation Commission to uphold the original structure of the building.
Green Deport has 10 stores across the east coast.
