Living Green Guide
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
Welcome to Yomo Toro Apartments
V.
How to Keep Your Home Healthy and Clean
Building Green
Green Materials
Building Community
Housekeeping
Laundry
II.
Living Green
Pest Control
What is Living Green?
Trash and Recycling
Why is Living Green Important?
Smoking Policy
Green Environmental Programs
Living Green Community Resources
The Living Green Guide
A Green and Healthy Future
VI.Appendix
Important Phone Numbers
III.
Our Shared Outdoor Space
Metro North and MTA Contact Info
Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
NYC Recycling Collection Information
Plant Care
Activities in Your Area
Bicycles
Living Green Community Resources
IV.
How to Save Water and Energy
Saving Water and Energy
Controlling Energy Consumption
Heating and Cooling
Ventilation and Temperature Control
Water Use and Conservation
Household Appliances
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4
Welcome to Yomo Toro Apartments
We hope that you and your family
enjoy your new home. From the
beginning, our vision for Yomo
Toro Apartments was to create an
innovative, diverse and healthy
community that residents would
be proud to call home.
We carefully planned, designed and constructed this building in order
to offer a distinctive, environmentally-responsible housing model for
New York City that promotes a healthier lifestyle, conserves natural
resources, and creates a flourishing community.
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WELCOME TO YOMO TORO APARTMENTS
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WELCOME TO YOMO TORO APARTMENTS
BUILDING GRE E N
Buildings have a great environmental impact on the earth, its wildlife, and its natural
resources such as the air we breathe and the water we drink. For this reason, our
design team collaborated around the goal of conserving resources and lessening
our building’s impact on the environment. From start to finish, our team was guided
by careful decision-making, design, construction and operations strategies.
Green buildings start by being located in green locations. Yomo Toro Apartments is
considered a smart growth location because it is located adjacent to the 6 Metro
line and city buses that provide easy access to jobs, shopping, and recreation
throughout New York City and your surrounding community. By having this
convenient access to mass transit and amenities, residents can be less dependent
on cars to get to and from work, stores, theaters, beaches and parks. As a result, less
fuel is used, pollution is reduced, and residents save money. The more residents can
walk and bike to and from their destinations and home, the healthier their lifestyle will
be.
The location of your building is just one of the many “green” choices made when
creating the building. Other features that reduce the building’s environmental
impact and allow you and your neighbors to save energy, water and money, and
promote healthy habits include:
• the use of environmentally friendly building materials
• water conserving toilets and plumbing fixtures
• energy saving lights and appliances
• occupancy light sensors in all public areas
• large, operable windows
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WELCOME TO YOMO TORO APARTMENTS
• an efficient heating and hot water system
• outdoor terrace and green roof space
• bike storage
Each of these elements helps to create a positive living environment, conserve
valuable resources, and reduce utility bills.
The combination of these elements has earned Yomo Toro Apartments green
building recognition by Enterprise Green Communities®, as well as met the
requirements for NYSERDA’s Multifamily Performance Program (MPP).
To learn more about Green Rating Systems, see the Green Environmental Programs
section in the following chapter “Living Green.”
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WELCOME TO YOMO TORO APARTMENTS
BUILDING COMMUNITY
It is our hope that this building and its ‘living green’ mission, offers you a strong
sense of community to enjoy. We invite all residents to become actively involved in
supporting the vision by taking steps to help protect our environment and create a
healthier lifestyle.
This building was designed with one major goal in mind: to design a building that
puts an emphasis on the health and fitness of the residents. This was achieved
through the building’s landscaping, outdoor terrace and green roof, a community
room, secure bike storage, and Wi-Fi in the computer room and community room.
In addition, the building is home to DREAM Charter School that is committed to
educating the youth of East Harlem. All of these components contribute to creating
a flourishing, healthy community at Yomo Toro Apartments.
To keep the building healthy and to conserve natural resources, we ask that residents
clean and maintain their apartments using green products and practices, just as the
building maintenance staff does on a daily basis in the lobby, corridors and other
shared spaces.
We prepared this Living Green Guide to not only give you tips on how to keep your
home clean, green and healthy, but to also educate you on how Living Green
affects others in your community.
Many of our suggestions are easy to adopt and all of them are worth the time and
effort. We hope that you will use this Guide and that it will help you to maintain an
enjoyable living environment.
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LIVING GREEN
WH A T IS L I VI NG GRE E N ?
‘Living Green’ means making environmentally responsible decisions in your daily life
to support your health as well as the health of the community, region and planet.
These choices can be as simple as turning off lights when you leave a room, recycling
your bottles and cans, taking the subway or bus to work, walking or biking instead of
driving, or teaching your friends and family about the importance of taking care of
our environment.
Scientists predict that the effects of global warming will lead to such changes as
increases in seasonal temperatures and more severe weather in the coming century.
The consequences of these changes are unpredictable but could include an
increase in the spread of disease, drought, flooding, and uncertainty in food supplies.
We have many reasons to try to reduce our output of the gases that lead to climate
change.
Minor changes to our daily living habits may seem unimportant when we think about
the challenge of global warming. However, when all of us do even one small thing
as a community and as a nation, even seemingly minor lifestyle changes can add up
and make a big difference.
WH Y IS LIV I NG GRE E N I M PORTA N T ?
It surprises many people that homes, not cars, are the biggest polluters in the United
States. For example, the average American household produces 3,500 pounds of
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LIVING GREEN
FACT: Carbon in the Earth’s
garbage, 450,000 gallons of wastewater, and 25,000 pounds of carbon dioxide
atmosphere traps the sun’s heat and
(C02) each year. Human-created carbon dioxide emissions from our burning of gas,
keeps the earth warm. This is good,
oil and coal, is considered to be largely responsible for global warming due to the
“Greenhouse Effect.”
because otherwise it would be too
cold for us to live on this planet.
Unfortunately, our excessive burning
of fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and
oil in cars and power plants increases
the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2)
in the atmosphere and causes the
earth to become warmer and warmer.
This excessive heating of the earth is
called “Global Warming.” The best
way to stop global warming is to
reduce our dependence on fossil fuels
As a nation, Americans consume approximately $80 trillion worth of energy each
year. This large use of energy contributes to: a loss of natural resources and
affordable energy; global warming; polluted air, drinking water and soils; and
heightened health risks for children and adults alike.
The good news is that by taking steps to live green, each one of us has the ability to
help eliminate these problems while reducing many of our everyday costs as well.
Living Green helps to protect our natural environment by limiting the amount of
resources we consume. It helps to ensure that future generations can enjoy benefits
that we often take for granted such as fresh air, clean drinking water, safe food and
cost-effective electricity.
G R E E N E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R OG RA M S
How can you tell how green a building actually is? There are a number of national
green building rating standards that certify a building. The major ones include:
by driving less and conserving energy.
•
The U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®)
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LIVING GREEN
•
ENERGY STAR®
•
Enterprise Green Communities®
Each of these systems requires independent verification of green claims and offers a
helpful measure for the public to understand how green a building may be.
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and was developed
by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) as a standard certificate for excellence
in green building. ENERGY STAR® is a similar certificate developed by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Enterprise Green Communities is the first green building program developed
specifically for affordable housing. The certification guide was developed with the
help of some of the nation’s leading experts in public health and green building and
includes guides for multi-family development, single family homes, and rehabilitation
of existing buildings. The criteria for the Enterprise Green Communities certification is
aligned with the LEED Green Building Rating System.
These certifications are like a car’s mile-per-gallon (M.P.G.) rating for buildings; they
demonstrate that a certified home will use less energy than the average home,
much like a M.P.G. rating shows how much fuel a car will consume. According to the
EPA, an ENERGY STAR® rated new home will use 20 to 30 percent less energy than a
standard home.
TH IS LIV ING GRE E N GU I DE
This guide provides you with information about how you can live a green lifestyle in
your unit including how to:
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LIVING GREEN
•
Care for outdoor green spaces
•
Keep your home clean and healthy
•
Save energy and water, by turning off lights and faucets when not in use
•
Make the most of your apartment’s amenities to reduce costs
•
Use your home’s appliances efficiently
•Recycle
•
Find “green” community resources
•
Access public transportation
•
Find help if you have questions or problems
This Living Green Guide is just one way to help residents understand Living Green.
http://www.habitathorticulture.com/
Other opportunities to learn more about Living Green include:
•
Building events such as living green parties for residents to answer questions and offer residents new tips for living green;
•
Green tips posted on the community bulletin board, along with recycling, water and energy guidelines;
• Signage placed throughout the building and outdoor areas to remind you about specific green practices such as recycling or enjoying outdoor gardens;
• Building staff ready to help residents adjust apartment temperature settings and controls to ensure that systems are operating efficiently and as intended.
A G R E E N A N D H E A L T H Y F U T URE
We hope that this guide supplies useful information to you for creating a healthier,
vibrant, and friendly community. We also hope that it inspires you to walk, bike and
venture beyond your building to explore other resources and natural areas in your
community that help to sustain our city and region.
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OUR SHARED
OUTDOOR SPACE
GA RDEN S AND OU TDOOR SPAC E S
The impactful design of outdoor spaces within the project provides opportunities
of engagement and education among residents of the Yomo Toro Apartments
community. The landscape for your building has been designed to be drought
tolerant.
Featured adjacent to the community room is a roof terrace that is accessible to
all residents. This terrace has benches, a table and chairs, and planted areas for
residents to enjoy. A portion of the planted area has been set aside for residents
to plant themselves at building-wide planting events. To the East of the outdoor
terrace area is an area planted with sedum that helps reduce water runoff and helps
insulate the building. Please be careful not to walk on the sedum plantings.
Residents can enjoy the outdoor space at the designated patio areas. As part of the
larger development project, the Blake Hobbs Park on the corner of 2nd Avenue and
E. 104th St. was rehabilitated with new landscaping and play equipment. This new
park is now open and ready to be enjoyed by you and your family.
Each of these components serve as elements to build community and environmental
David Sundberg
sustainability within Yomo Toro Apartments. They provide an educational opportunity
for residents to understand sustainable landscaping techniques and how they can
live more green.
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OUR SHARED OUTDOOR SPACE
FACT: Fruits and vegetables from
PLANT CARE
supermarkets usually have traveled
To keep our gardens healthy, plants must only be watered with fresh, clear water.
thousands of miles for days or even
weeks, causing its nutritional value,
freshness and taste to decline with
time. Food from farmers markets
and community gardens is often
picked less than 24 hours before you
purchase it!
Please do not pour soft drinks, soapy water, other liquids and debris into the gardens, as
they can harm or kill the plants.
BICYCLES
To further promote more sustainable living, Yomo Toro Apartments is equipped with
a bicycle storage room located on the 6th Floor. We provided the bike storage area
for residents to help reduce dependency on cars and promote a reduction in the
use of natural resources and carbon emissions. Bicycle riding is also an easy form
of exercise. Studies indicate that moderate exercise and weight-loss reduces the
chance one will suffer from heart disease, cancer or diabetes.
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HOW TO SAVE
WATER & ENERGY
SAV IN G WATER AND E NE RGY
Conserving energy and water resources benefits the environment in a variety of
ways. For example, using less electricity reduces power plant emissions, which in turn,
reduces air and water pollution, and helps to protect everyone’s health.
In addition, the less energy that is used in the building, the less money you will
have to pay for these utilities. Below are some features of your building and
some suggestions to help you save even more energy, keep the air in your home
comfortable and clean, and lower your monthly energy bills.
CONTROLL I NG ENERGY C ONSU MP T I O N
Simple ideas like switching off electrical equipment such as computers and
televisions and unplugging cell phone chargers when not in use, can result in
considerable savings because such equipment consumes energy even when
dormant. This saves you money, and helps save the planet. When you get your
first electric bill, you might want to see if you can “beat it” in future months by using
electricity more thoughtfully. You will find the turning off the lights when you leave a
room saves quite a bit!
LIGHTING
Tips to reduce electrical energy consumption:
• Use daylight to light your home naturally instead of using energy consuming
artificial lights.
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HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
• Turn off lights and any electronic equipment whenever you’re leaving your
apartment or when you do not need them to be on.
• Use compact florescent lights: they last longer than regular incandescent lights
and the cooler fluorescent light bulbs will help to reduce the need to air condition
a room being warmed by incandescent and halogen lights.
• When the light bulbs burn out in your apartment, notify property management;
they will help you find energy-efficient replacement bulbs.
• Do not throw away fluorescent light bulbs in the trash; the building’s staff should
take them to a hazardous waste facility for proper disposal.
• Avoid using halogen lamps. Not only are halogen lamps major energy wasters,
but they also pose a significant fire hazard because they get so hot.
• In addition, the common areas and hallways are equipped with incandescent
and LED lights that are set on an occupancy sensor. This means that when there
is no one in the hallways, the lights will dim to save electricity. The lights located
adjacent to your front door will always be turned on for your safety; however,
you may notice the hall lights turning on when you exit your unit. Please do not
be alarmed by this; but, instead, keep in mind that this is another way that the
building is able to be energy efficient.
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HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
INSULATION
Heating and cooling buildings consumes a lot of energy that typically comes from
non-renewable fossil fuels such as coal or oil that pollute the air, contribute to global
warming and place excessive demands on the earth’s natural resources. Insulation
is one of the simplest yet effective tools to conserve energy. Proper insulation helps
to keep heat in your apartment in the winter and cool air in your apartment in the
summer.
Yomo Toro Apartments has a layer of insulation installed in the exterior walls of the
building to help retain the heat in the winter and cooling in the summer. By doing
so, the amount of energy used by the heating and air conditioning systems will be
reduced. In addition to retaining heat and cooling, the insulation helps to reduce
the transmission of sound between spaces in order to provide each resident with a
quieter home.
ROOF
The green roof on the 3rd floor provides a great opportunity to utilize innovative
design to maximize energy efficiency for the project. The green roof absorbs heat
and acts as an insulator for the building, reducing the energy needed for heating
and cooling. By reducing the usage of heating and cooling systems, the green roof
is able to decrease its contribution to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The
plantings on the roof also help reduce storm water runoff.
H EA TING AND C OOL I NG
The building has been engineered to efficiently meet the building’s required peak
capacity through passive design techniques, based on the building orientation.
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HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
WINDOWS
Each home features operable windows to permit natural ventilation during the
warmer months. Trickle vents at the base of the window allow for controlled amounts
of fresh air to enter your unit. This is especially useful in the winter if you want to
reduce the stuffiness in your apartment without losing heat and energy by opening
the window. The Low-E glass in the windows is specifically designed to reflect solar
rays which also help to reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer.
Drafts lower the insulating power of your apartment and cause heaters and air
conditioners to work much harder to reach a comfortable room temperature.
Tips for the use of your windows:
• Windows left partially open when the ceiling fan is operating is an excellent way
to circulate air throughout your apartment and keep it cool.
• If you need to use your air-conditioning unit, please make sure to close your
windows to keep the cool air inside your apartment.
• Closing your windows tightly, when your air conditioning unit is on, will save
energy. (Drafts lower the insulating power of your apartment and cause
heaters and air conditioners to work much harder to reach a comfortable room
temperature.)
• Please report any drafts or leaks around your windows or exterior doors (if you
have them) to property management so that issues can be addressed.
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HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
EXHAUST FANS
Regularly cleaning fans and vents will improve indoor air quality and help prevent
the spread of allergens such as dust and molds. All bathrooms are fitted with local
exhaust fans to reduce moisture build-up and allergens caused by mold and mildew.
Circulating exhaust hoods above the cook tops in the kitchen should be used
whenever you are cooking. These two features were installed to directly enhance
indoor air quality.
V EN TILA TION AND TEM PE RATU R E C O N T R O L
There are many different ways to keep your home comfortable that are cost
effective and energy efficient. How you manage the climate comfort of your home
can have a tremendous impact on energy efficiency and the environment.
Tips for ventilating and controlling the temperature:
• If you are warm during the summer months, consider opening the windows and
turn on a fan instead of operating the air conditioning
• Leave the windows open in the night during warm weather to naturally cool the
space before the coming day’s heat gains.
• Close your blinds during the day, especially on windows facing south to block
hot sun during the summer and reduce cooling needs. We recommend that the
blinds stay down and the slats remain open to admit light.
• During the winter months, if you are too warm, please adjust the temperature on
your thermostat. If you need assistance with this, please contact the maintenance
staff. This practice will conserve energy and reduce your utility bill.
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HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
FACT: Phantom loads are electronic
products that use energy even when
turned off. A typical home can have
• Do not leave the heat or air conditioning on when you have the window open, or
open the window when you have the heat on unless you just need to air out the
room for a short time. Opening the window while, heating or cooling the room at
the same time wastes energy.
as many as 20 phantom loads adding
roughly $200 annually to your energy
Fred Forbes
bill!
• Do not place furniture next to the air vents as that can affect the performance of
the heating and cooling systems.
W A T E R U S E A N D C O N S E R V A T ION
Americans use roughly 380 billion gallons of water per day, leading to water shortages
and drained lakes, rivers and streams. Conserving water in your home will help reduce
bills and ensure that we have a clean and healthy water supply in the future.
PLUMBING FIXTURES
• All of the fixtures in your unit use less water than traditional fixtures. For example,
while normal shower heads use 5 gallons of water every minute, “low-flow” fixtures
use only 1.5 gallons per minute. Aerators on the sinks reduce water usage from 2-3
gallons per minute to 1.5 gallons per minute. Toilets in the building are a low-flow
model that use only 1.0 or 1.6 gallons per flush.
Tips for saving water when using showers and sinks:
• When using a sink or the shower, don’t run the faucet longer than is necessary for
your task. When you turn a faucet off, make sure that it is all the way off.
• If you hear the sound of dripping or trickling water in your apartment, notice
that your faucets are leaking, or that your toilet is running for a long time after
it has been flushed and you can’t get it to stop, please notify the building’s
maintenance staff right away so that any required repairs can be made.
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HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
• Try not to take very long showers; a 5-minute shower uses less hot water than a
bath and saves money.
• When using a clothes washer, try to run full loads whenever possible.
HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS
Do not pour any hazardous chemicals or paints down the drain or into the ground.
These chemicals will eventually find their way into the ground and pollute the
groundwater and soil. Save any products and ask the maintenance staff for
guidance in disposing of them.
H OUSEH O L D APPL I ANC ES
In addition to this guide, you should also have owner’s manuals for the appliances in
your apartment; please refer to those manuals for information on maintaining your
appliances. If you do not have those manuals, please request them from a building
manager. If anything breaks in your apartment, or if you need some other type of
maintenance or repair help, please contact the property manager to request help
from the building’s maintenance or housekeeping staff. Household appliances are
major consumers of both energy and water.
REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER
Each home has an ENERGY STAR® refrigerator. Condenser coils, located behind the
grill at the bottom of the refrigerator, are encased so they don’t require cleaning in
normal operating environments. However, we strongly encourage that the bottom
is cleaned regularly.
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Fred Forbes
of the refrigerator is kept clean of dust or debris and the area behind the refrigerator
HOW TO SAVE WATER & ENERGY
Other suggestions to maximize the use of your refrigerator include:
• Maintain refrigerator at 35°F to 38°F as recommended by ENERGY STAR®.
• Maintain freezer temperature at 0°F as recommended by ENERGY STAR®.
• Pull the refrigerator forward twice a year to sweep and clean behind it. If you would
like to be shown how to do this or if your refrigerator is not working properly, please
Fred Forbes
contact property management.
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HOW TO KEEP YOUR
HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
GR EEN MA TERI AL S
Many materials commonly used in modern construction contain chemicals that
discharge a gas when they are new. This is what you may smell when you enter a
room that has been newly painted or had carpeting installed. It is known as ‘offgassing’ because the materials are often wrapped and shipped before they are fully
cured and aired, or when they are first applied in the field. These vapors, which can
be a sign of the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can be harmful
not only in paints and carpets but in glues and binders that hold many materials
together. Your building was constructed and finished with materials that contain no
or very low VOCs. Without the presence of these vapors you will notice how fresh the
building smells and that any introduction of new materials containing VOCs will be
quickly noticeable.
Another construction material that can cause health issues is urea formaldehyde.
Urea formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance in wood. But it is also added
as a binder or adhesive in the manufacturing of wood panels, flooring and wood
products made of composite wood or thin wood layers such as plywood. It is the
vapor of this added urea formaldehyde that can adversely affect indoor air quality.
All the composite and plywood products used in your unit’s kitchen and bath
cabinets, counters and wood doors, are free of added urea formaldehyde or are
properly sealed and add no harmful substances to indoor environment.
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Fred Forbes
when trapped inside and can lead to “sick building syndrome.” VOCs are found
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
In addition to the environmentally responsible approach to your building’s roof,
insulation and windows, a significant amount of consideration was given to the use
of materials in the building’s common areas and apartments.
INTERIOR COMMON AREAS
• Walk-off Mats: you’ll notice a black, brushed mat inlaid in the floor at all entrances
to the building. This is to help remove debris and contaminants from shoes as
people walk into the building, thereby keeping the interior of the building cleaner.
• Hallway Flooring: The vinyl flooring in the hallway is produced by Armstrong and
meets the LEED EQ credit for low emitting interiors.
• Lighting: Energy efficient LED lighting is used throughout the building.
• Paint: Benjamin Moore-Ultra Spec 500. This paint is rated No VOC to promote a
healthy indoor environment.
• Fitness Room Flooring: The fitness room flooring is manufactured by To Market using
100% post-consumer recycled tire rubber
IN THE APARTMENT UNITS
• Cabinets: The Smart Cabinetry is EPS certified and meets the requirements for the
KCMA Environmental Stewardship Program
• The kitchen countertops on floors 4-5 are made from recycled banana fiber
content, while the countertops on floors 6-11 is made from 20% post-consumer
recycled material and meets GreenGuard requirements
• Flooring: Apartments feature Shaw Natural Values flooring, which meets
GreenGuard requirements
• Adhesives and sealants: All adhesives and sealants used are low or no-VOC.
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HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
H OUSEKEE PI NG
FACT: Many flooring products contain
It’s important to take care of your home, to keep it clean and pest-free, and to clean
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
it using safe products, in order to help protect your health and maintain a pleasant
living environment. Most people spend 90% of their time indoors, forcing them to
As noted above, VOCs are found
be exposed to potentially harmful chemicals that are used in buildings. Yomo Toro
in many paints, glues and carpets
Apartments features a green cleaning plan to ensure that the common areas of the
and may be a health hazard. The
building are cleaned utilizing environmentally responsible products.
More specific green cleaning guidelines can be found in the appendix of this guide,
your building were chosen for their
but listed below are some general recommendations on general housekeeping
low-toxicity and low-VOC content
practices, cleaning products, and laundry:
• Sweep the floors of your apartment regularly - we recommend at least once a
week.
• All of the hard surface flooring should be mopped whenever it starts to get dirty or
sticky.
• Vacuum rugs and carpets regularly. Dirt and dust get trapped and they can
trigger allergy symptoms and asthma.
• Wash any dirty dishes daily and clean kitchen surfaces with a damp cloth
whenever they are dirty.
• If water or any liquid is spilled on any rugs and carpets, soak it up immediately
with a dry towel or rag. Mildew and mold can develop in carpeting that stays wet
too long.
• Wipe up any puddles of water from your bathroom or kitchen floor to help
prevent mildew and water damage.
• If your toilet overflows and you can’t get it to stop, report it to maintenance staff
immediately.
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paints, sealants and glues used in
to ensure that the air quality inside
your home remains healthy. When
purchasing these products yourself,
look for the Green Seal on paints and
the Green Label on carpets and rugs
to make sure that what you buy is low
in VOCs.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
• Open the window whenever there are odors, fumes from cleaning products or
other chemicals, or excess moisture in your apartment.
• When you are using your stove, turn on the range hood fan if the cooking creates
any smoke or odors.
• Clean the grease filter on your stove’s range hood when any grease builds
up. If you have questions about how to clean the grease filter, please ask the
maintenance staff.
leave scratch marks.
Fred Forbes
• Don’t use bristle brushes or other abrasive products when cleaning, as they can
• Throw out and replace used sponges and cloths/rags if they’re dirty or smelly.
• When using a cleaning product, read its label and follow the instructions for using
and storing the product.
• Don’t mix different cleaning products together unless specifically recommended
or unless they are benign, non-reactive, non-toxic substances.
• If you need to dispose of a chemical cleaning product, please contact
management. (See the next section on Trash and Recycling)
• Glues, adhesives, paints, and other household products often contain volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to indoor air pollution (as well as
to outdoor smog). Try to choose products that are labeled as “low-VOC” or “nontoxic,” whenever possible.
CLEANING PRODUCTS
Cleaning your home is important because it helps remove harmful contaminants,
such as mold and bacteria. However, studies indicate that many conventional
cleaning products can also cause health problems.
The use of toxic cleaning products can be a particular problem for people who have
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HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
health conditions such as asthma or allergies or who have chemical sensitivities or
FACT: Chemical cleaners and
weak immune systems. Some cleaning products can cause headaches, dizziness,
packaging can stay toxic for
skin irritation, respiratory irritation and asthma, eye irritation or worse; some contain
cancer-causing substances, reproductive toxins, central nervous system toxins, and
many years after they have been
endocrine system/hormone disruptors.
disposed of, polluting soil and water.
PRODUCTS TO AVOID
Avoid the use of chlorine bleach unless it’s absolutely necessary to use such a strong
cleaning supplies break down over
disinfectant. Hydrogen peroxide is a good alternative to chlorine bleach. Never use
time and decompose into non-
undiluted chlorine bleach or ammonia. Both chemicals can cause major respiratory
irritation. Also avoid most “anti-bacterial” and “anti-microbial” products; use of such
products can cause germs to become resistant to antibiotics.
Read product labels, including the small print. As a general rule, you should avoid all
products that are labeled “Danger-Poison.” Products with “Warning” labels are also
dangerous, but less so, and products labeled with “Caution” are the least harmful of
the three, although they can still be hazardous. Also avoid products that are labeled as
“Corrosive,” “Severely Irritating,” “Highly Flammable,” or “Highly Combustible.” And avoid
aerosols when possible; they often contain substances that are flammable and that can
contribute to indoor air quality problems.
Avoid using most “air freshener” products, especially if labels state that they contain paradichlorobenzene. Ingredients like this can cause headaches and other health problems.
SIMPLE, NATURAL CLEANING PRODUCTS
Some very basic and multi-purpose household substances can be used as safe and
effective alternative cleaning solutions for most household cleaning jobs. These
household items include: baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, and salt, as well
28
Biodegradable packaging and
toxic elements that don’t harm the
environment.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
as hydrogen peroxide and borax. Borax and baking soda are especially versatile
household products that can be used for a variety of purposes.
For example, baking soda will clean and deodorize all kitchen and bathroom
surfaces. Just dissolve a few tablespoons in some warm water, or use the baking
soda directly on a damp sponge. A combination of baking soda, hot water, and
vinegar can clear drains. Alternatively, using a mild soap like dishwashing detergent
or liquid/Castile soap with some water will clean most surfaces adequately.
A sample recipe for a non-toxic, all-purpose cleaner for cleaning countertops, floors,
walls and other services is:
1 quart warm water
1 teaspoon liquid soap
1 teaspoon borax
½ cup undiluted white vinegar
Mix ingredients and store in a spray bottle.
Miscellaneous ingredients can be used separately as well as effective cleaners.
PURCHASE NON-TOXIC CLEANERS
Many store-bought cleaning products now carry Green Label certification;
check the label to see if the products you are using qualify. When at the store,
look for products that are labeled as non-toxic, low VOC or zero VOC, and/or
biodegradable. Also look for unscented products (some people are allergic to
certain fragrances) and products with recyclable packaging/containers. If the stores
where you shop don’t carry them, please ask them to!
29
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
Please see the Appendix for web sites providing resources and more information on
green cleaning products.
LA UN DRY
Tips for doing laundry to save energy and reduce costs:
• When your laundry items are only slightly dirty, you should select the cold water
setting to do your wash. This setting will help to save energy.
• Choose a laundry detergent that is labeled as phosphate-free, biodegradable,
and/or non-toxic. You should also consider selecting an unscented product.
Examples of such products include borax and Arm & Hammer’s Washing Soda.
Only a small amount of detergent is necessary; do not use more than the amount
that is recommended in the instructions on the box/container.
• When you are done drying your clothes, please clean the lint out of the dryer’s
lint filter. This will help the dryer work better for the next person who uses it and
prevents the lint from becoming a fire hazard.
• Washing one big load of laundry uses less energy than two small loads. Make sure
your load is full before running the machine to save money.
• Washing only full loads of laundry save the average American home as much as
3,400 gallons of water a year.
• Wash full loads of laundry with cold water. Washing clothes in hot water costs
more and does not sterilize clothes. Heating water to “hot” accounts for 90% of the
machine’s washing energy; only 10% goes to power the motor. Switching to “cold”
can save the average household more than $400 annually with an electric water
heater and $300 annually with a gas heater.
• Use non-toxic soaps and alternative cleaners as suggested.
• Please do not overload the dryer.
30
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
FACT: Recycling can help prevent
PEST CONTROL
global warming. Trees naturally
It is important to keep your apartment free of pests (such as cockroaches, rodents,
reduce the carbon dioxide levels
etc.), since pests can carry disease. If you find bugs, ants, rodents, or other pests in
your apartment, report it to the building’s maintenance staff right away.
in the atmosphere by transforming
carbon dioxide into oxygen.
Unfortunately, entire forests are
PESTICIDES
Please do not use toxic pesticide products, such as Raid spray. Most pesticides are
poisons, and they are often poisonous to humans, as well as to pests. Studies have
being cut down to make paper.
linked some pesticides to cancer, birth defects, neurological disorders, and immune
Without these forests, carbon dioxide
system disorders, as well as allergies. Pesticides should only be used as a last resort
levels increase and global warming
intensifies. The more we recycle, the
fewer trees we need to cut down.
and in very small amounts. As a general rule, it is best to avoid products that are
labeled “Danger-Poison.”
ANTS
If ants are in your apartment, try sprinkling borax at holes and crevices where they
are entering; ants do not like boric acid. If you decide that you must use some
chemical pest control products, consider using only baits for cockroaches and ants.
RODENTS
Traps should be used for rodents rather than poisons. Building management staff
should be able to help you with these issues if they arise.
Tips to prevent pests in your apartment:
• Clean up any open, unsealed food and crumbs. Wrap and seal any leftover food
and put it the refrigerator or in a cabinet if tightly sealed.
• Do not leave dirty dishes on countertops and in the kitchen sink overnight.
• Clean up spills or sticky substances from all floors and surfaces.
• Keep your kitchen clean (counters, cabinets, sinks, floors, stove and microwave
31
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
• Be sure to clean up any grease with soapy water and dry off any wet areas.
• Sweep, mop and vacuum regularly.
• Rinse bottles, cans and containers before putting them in the recycling bins.
• Take your garbage and recyclables to the trash room at least once a day if there
are any pests in your apartment.
• Minimize clutter and paper piles that can provide hiding places for pests.
• If you notice any water leaks or moisture-damaged materials in your apartment,
report the issue to building maintenance staff immediately.
TRA SH AND RE C YC L I NG
New York City currently picks up recycling every week at your building. Trash pickup is on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Recycling is picked up on Tuesdays.
Recyclable materials - including paper, aluminum and tin cans, plastic, cardboard,
newspapers and magazine - must be separated from garbage.
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/dsny/recycling-and-garbage/residents.page
Materials that cannot be recycled include: light bulbs, plastic bags, styrofoam,
ceramic dishes, heavily waxed or plastic coated paper, mirrors, and window glass.
The building’s maintenance staff can recycle fluorescent light bulbs.
There are trash and recycling rooms on every residential floor. Empty all of your paper
recycling into the chute labeled Recycle and all of your trash into the chute labeled
Trash. In order to protect our building maintenance staff, please do not put glass or
plastic down the recycle chute. Glass and plastic items should be left in the blue
recycling bin located in every trash and recycling room. Large paper products that
cannot fit down the chute, such as boxes, should be flattened and left in the trash
and recycle rooms for pick-up by building management staff.
32
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
Make sure you empty your trash can’s contents into the trash chute at least once a
week, or every evening if there are any pests in your apartment. You should wash out
your recycling can and trash can as often as is necessary to remove sticky residues
that might attract pests.
REUSE ITEMS INSTEAD OF DISPOSING THEM
Many items we throw out can be used again. You can search online for more ideas.
• Donate old clothes to a local thrift shop.
• Bring canvas, cloth, or old plastic bags with you to the store instead of bringing home
new ones. The tote filled with green cleaning products given to you as a welcome
gift is perfect for groceries and shopping.
• Purchase and use reusable shopping bags instead of using and discarding plastic
bags. The United States consumes an estimated 380 billion plastic bags per year,
97% of which are not recycled.
• Use silverware instead of disposable cutlery and paper plates.
• Pack your lunch or leftovers in a reusable container.
PURCHASE PRODUCTS MADE FROM RECYCLED MATERIALS
Many products, such as plastic containers, paper towels, toilet paper, notebooks,
and glassware come from recycled materials. Purchasing these products show
manufacturers that you support recycling efforts and can reduce the amount of natural
resources we consume. Use recycled, non-chlorine bleached paper and bath products
when possible. These products are far less polluting than products containing bleach.
Refer to the Recycling Collection sheet that is in the Appendix at the back of this
guide; it includes pictures of the various types of recyclable materials.
33
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL
FACT: Every ton of 100% recycled
Hazardous waste materials may NOT be thrown in the garbage. They must be
paper saves an estimated 4,100
dropped off at the appropriate city facility for safe disposal or recycling, so that they
don’t contribute to the contamination of the air, water, or soil.
kilowatt-hours of energy, 7,000
gallons of water, and 60 pounds of
Hazardous waste materials include:
• Chemical cleaning supplies
• Batteries (all types)
made with 100% recycled materials,
• Fluorescent lamps/light bulbs
approximately 1 million tons of used
• Paint, paint thinners, primers, stains and other finishes
paper would be kept out of our waste
• Toxic glues and adhesives
• Medical/biohazard waste (including needles)
stream. Recycling of aluminum cans
• Pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizer
saves 80-90% of the energy used to
• Computers, TVs, and other electronic equipment
make virgin aluminum, one of the
• Printer/copier ink/toner
• Used motor oil
• Cans with compressed gases
If you have hazardous materials to dispose of and cannot arrange to drop them off at
the appropriate facility, let the building manager know; a staff member will help you.
34
air pollutants. If all paper towels were
most energy intensive metals to
produce.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME HEALTHY & CLEAN
SMOKING POLICY
Yomo Toro Apartments is a non-smoking building. This includes a no smoking policy
within your units and in the gardens and green roofs. If you smoke on the sidewalk
outside the building, please do not stand near the doors to the building or near any
open windows.
If you must smoke please do not drop cigarette butts on the sidewalks outside the
building.
L I V I N G G R E E N C O M M U N I T Y R ESOURCES
There is a great depth of information online offering tips for green living and shopping
opportunities for healthy products. The following websites are useful in learning more
about Green Buildings and how you can live a healthier, more beneficial lifestyle
while serving the environment:
•
U.S. Green Building Council: www.usgbc.org
•
EPA ENERGY STAR®: www.energystar.gov
•
Electronics TakeBack Coalition: www.computertakeback.com
•
EPA Personal Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator:
•
www.epa.gov/climatechange/ghgemissions/ind-calculator.html
•
EPA Green Vehicle Guide: www.epa.gov/greenvehicles
•
National Geographic Green Guide: www.greenguide.com
•
Planet Green Resource: www.planetgreen.discovery.com
•
Green Living Tips: www.greenlivingtips.com
•
Living Green Online Shopping: www.livinggreen.com
•
Green and More Online Shopping: www.greenandmore.com
35
APPENDIX
IMP OR TANT PHONE NU M BERS METRO NORTH AND M TA C ONTA C T I N F O R M A T I O N
NEW Y ORK C I TY REC YC L I NG C O L L E C T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N
ACTIV ITIES I N YOU R ARE A
LIV ING GR EEN C OM M U NI TY RE S O U R C E S
36
APPENDIX
Any questions or requests to Property
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Management should follow the
Emergency Police & Fire 911
procedures outlined in the Rules and
NYC Non-Emergency services and information311
Regulations. A work order form is
New York City Police Department (23rd Precinct) (212) 860-6411
provided for such requests.
New York City Fire Commissioner – Non-Emergency
311
The phone number of the Yomo Toro
Apartments Management Office is
(718) 579-3632.
Con Edison 1(800) 75-CONED
Report Leaks, Odors, and Emergencies
1(800) 752-6633
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
1(800) 692-0557
Telephone/Cable/Internet:
Time Warner1(800)892-4357
37
APPENDIX
METRO NORTH AND M TA C ONTA C T
INFOR MATI ON
Transit schedules and ticket information for Metro North
can be obtained by visiting:
http://web.mta.info/mnr/html/planning/schedules/
Schedule information, maps and ticket information for
Metro Transit Authority (MTA) can be found by visiting:
http://web.mta.info
38
MTA TRANSIT MAP
APPENDIX
METRO NORTH TRANSI T M AP
39
APPENDIX
NEW Y ORK C I TY REC YC L I NG C O L L E C T I O N
H O W D O I R E C Y C LE ?
INFOR MATI ON
No one here is going to tell you it’s easy. It does take a little bit of effort
New York City currently picks up recycling every Tuesday at Yomo
and certainly it takes thought. Instead of throwing recyclable materials
Toro Apartments. As described in the Living Green guide, recyclable
in with your trash, separate them. Currently in New York City you must
materials must be separated from garbage. The building has been
separate paper from glass and plastic. Put your recyclables in the
provided with a separate trash chute to be used specifically for paper
appropriate paper chute or recycling bin located on your floor.
recycling only. For large boxes and cardboard that does not fit down
the chute, please flatten the boxes and leave them in the trash and
W H Y S H O U L D I R E C YCLE ?
recycling room. There is also another recycling bin located in every
Recycling saves us money, creates jobs and saves the environment.
trash and recycling room for plastic and glass. Please be sure to dispose
The question should really be, “Why shouldn’t I recycle?” Recycling
of your waste and recyclables in the correct location.
means you can do something good for yourself, your neighborhood, the
environment and even for your family. And if that’s not enough, do it
More information about New York City’s recycling program can be
found at the Department of Sanitation’s website:
http://www1.nyc.gov/site/dsny/recycling-and-garbage/residents.page
because it’s the law.
T R A S H A N D R E C Y CLIN G
Cartons:
Orange juice cartons, milk cartons, juice boxes, soup boxes, ice cream
WH A T IS REC YC L I NG ?
Recycling is being able to find a good use for something that otherwise
would be thrown away. Like paper. Old paper can make new paper.
Old aluminum cans can make new ones or can even be used to make
new car parts. Certain recycled plastics are used to make fleece
jackets. Even giving an old bike to another kid – it’s all recycling. And
it’s a good thing to do. It saves us all money and time. It uses the earth’s
resources in a better way. And it’s just not wasteful. In fact, it’s important.
The stuff you throw away can actually help someone else.
cartons, and more
Metal:
Tin and aluminum cans, empty aerosol cans, empty paint cans, clean
aluminum foil and foil products, metal caps and lids, household metal
(wire hangers, pots, tools, curtain rods, small appliances that are mostly
metal, certain vehicle license plates, etc.) and bulk metal (large metal
items, such as furniture, cabinets, etc.).
Glass:
Glass bottles and jars
40
APPENDIX
Mixed Paper:
W H A T Y O U C A N ’ T RECYCLE
newspapers, magazines, catalogs, phone books, mixed paper, white
Metal:
and colored paper, mail and envelopes, paper bags, wrapping paper,
Aluminum foil, pots/pans, paper clips
phone books, cardboard egg cartons and trays, shoe boxes, toilet
paper tubes, cardboard product packaging, food boxes (remove soiled
liner), paper cups
Plastic Containers:
plastic bottles, jugs, and jars, rigid plastic caps and lids, rigid plastic
food containers (yogurt, deli, hummus, dairy tubs, cookie tray inserts,
Glass:
Light bulbs, window glass, mirrors
Mixed Paper:
Hard back books, tissues, paper towels, napkins, wax-coated cups or
containers, food-soiled paper
“clamshell” containers, other plastic take-out containers), rigid
Plastic:
plastic non-food containers (“blister-pak” and “clamshell” consumer
Styrofoam, PVC pipe, packing inserts or “peanuts”, medical plastics,
packaging, acetate boxes), rigid plastic housewares (flower pots, mixing
including IV tubing, sharps, and syringes. Please refer to proper disposal
bowls, plastic appliances, etc.), bulk rigid plastic (crates, buckets, pails,
guidelines from your medical service providers
furniture, large toys, large appliances, etc.)
Cardboard:
Empty and flattened
Recycle plastic bags at grocery stores or re-use them for household
trash
Other:
Styrofoam, flexible plastics (such as wrapper and pouches), batteries,
cigarette lighters and butane gas lighters, cassette and VHS tapes, pens
and markers, cables, wires, cords
41
APPENDIX
ACTIV ITIES I N YOU R ARE A
The Museum of the City of New York has been celebrating the diversity
and transformation of the city since 1923. Check out its revolving
NEARBY P ARK S
exhibitions.
http://www.mcny.org
New York Conservatory Garden is located at the Northeast corner of
Central Park. It is the only formal garden in the Park
http://www.centralparknyc.org/things-to-see-and-do/
Randall’s Island, which has playfields and picnic areas, can be
accessed by the foot and bike path from E 103rd.
http://www.randallsisland.org/visit/getting-to-randalls-island
Check out the Olympic sized pool at Thomas Jefferson Park
http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/thomas-jefferson-park
Visit the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation webpage for
more information on outdoor activities in your area.
http://www.nycgovparks.org/
CULTUR AL DE STI NATI ONS
El Museo del Barrio has displays, exhibitions and educational programs
to preserve and present Puerto Rican and Latin American culture
http://www.elmuseo.org
42
The National Jazz Museum in Harlem has an intimate Visitors Center that
is open to the public, as well as weekly evening events.
http://jazzmuseuminharlem.org/
OTHER RESOURCES
La Marqueta, located on Park Avenue between 111th and 116th street,
is a local market that has a vibrant food scene and cultural events.
http://lamarquetaretona.com/
For more things to do and see in the city, check out the Official Guide
nycgo.com
APPENDIX
LIV ING GR EEN C OM M U NI TY RE S O U R C E S
There is a great depth of information on-line offering tips for green living and shopping opportunities for healthy products. The following websites
are useful in learning more about Green Buildings and how you can live a more healthy, beneficial lifestyle while serving the environment.
U.S. Green Building Council
Planet Green Resource
www.usgbc.org
http://planetgreen.discovery.com
EPA ENERGY STAR
Treehugger
www.energystar.gov
www.treehugger.com
Electronics TakeBack Coalition
Green Living Tips
www.computertakeback.com
www.greenlivingtips.com
EPA Personal Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator
Living Green Online Shopping
http://yosemite.epa.gov/oar/globalwarming.nsf/content/
http://livinggreen.com
resourcecentertoolsGHGCalulator.html
Green and More Online Shopping
EPA Green Vehicle Guide
www.greenandmore.com
www.epa.gove/greenvehicles
National Geographic Green Guide
www.greenguide.com
43