Sustainability has been defined as living within our means, reducing our “environmental footprint” by consuming less energy, releasing fewer harmful substances into the atmosphere, and increasing the efficiency of technology.  Our grandparents’ adage of “Waste not, want not” resonates today, particularly during an economic slowdown. 

Historic preservation and sustainability are natural allies with shared environmental, economic and social concerns. 

Preserving buildings makes the best use of the resources and energy used in their initial construction, known as embodied energy, as well as keeping discarded materials out of landfills.  Older homes can be brought up to modern standards of comfort through simple practices such as weather-stripping and caulking, making use of storm windows and installing attic insulation. 

The following topics offer information for owners of historic buildings as well as links to other organizations and resources for further research.

Sustainability and Historic Buildings

The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation &

 Illustrated Guidelines on Sustainability for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings and LEED

Your Green Home: Naturally Green Preservation

Weatherization Tips for Older Buildings

Wood Windows & the Environment

Solar Panels

Demolition / Deconstruction and Salvage

Reading List

The addition of this “Green Preservation” component to the City of Lancaster’s web site has been financed in part with Federal funds from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. However, the contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of the Interior, nor does the mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Department of the Interior.     This program receives Federal financial assistance for identification and protection of historic properties.  Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, the U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability or age in its federally assisted programs.  If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above, or if you desire further information, please write to:  Office of Equal Opportunity, National Park Service, 1849 C Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20240.