Empire State Building to get a green makeover

The iconic Empire State Building in New York is set to get a $20 million green makeover, to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emissions the building puts out by 105,000 metric tons over the next 15 years. This is equal to 17,500 cars and could save $4.4 million in energy costs.

This makeover will involve replacing the 6,500 windows with an insulated glass and adding extra insulation to the radiators to save on heat.

Former President Bill Clinton's foundation is helping with the cost of the environmental upgrades and Clinton and Mayor Michael Bloomberg attended the announcement saying that they hope it will serve as a model for other buildings around the world.

Bill Clinton said:

Upgrading buildings can be an important step in making buildings more environmentally friendly. The work is expected to be completed by 2010, with all of the green projects done by 2013.
Mayor Bloomberg wants to reduce New York's carbon footprint by 30 percent by 2030.