The Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation is financing a database of hundreds of buildings that have been sustainably retrofitted in New York City.  The database will track lighting changes, detail HVAC improvements, insulation upgrades, window replacements, potable water reduction and other substantial green adaptations, along with their respective cost and efficiency savings for building owners and occupants.

One of the key concerns of green building proponents throughout the country is how the cost and performance of green design –- favorably or unfavorably — compares to conventional construction.  Through the project, the Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation expects that the cataloging will be a useful reference for those considering an update to their own offices and buildings. If a point of reference, including empirical data, can be developed for cost and energy savings from retrofits, the hope is that it will lead to more companies and municipalities to undertake green renovations, according to Gary Hattem, president of the Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation.