New York City lawmakers are prepared to adopt legislation requiring “bird-friendly” glass on new construction “in an effort to cut down on the tens of thousands of birds who die flying into the city’s buildings every year,” according to an article in Crain’s New York.
The article reports that New York will be the largest city in the nation to require glass that is visible to birds if the measure passes.
According to the article, legislation would require that at least 90 percent of the exterior of the first 75 feet of new buildings be constructed with materials that are visible to birds, such as glass with a glazing or pattern. This change in material would only add "a fraction of a percent" to the overall cost of an average new city building.
The new law would apply to new construction projects only. The article reports the measure has wide support on the City Council and is expected to pass.
Groups that monitor bird populations are pleased about the prospect. New York City Audubon, for example, estimates that 90,000 to 230,000 birds are killed every year from flying into NYC buildings.
Source: Crain’s New York & Real Estate Weekly
