High Performance Design - The Next Generation
January 20th at US Custom House
Join The Sustainability Practice Network for a discussion on the next generation of buildings, which will be carbon neutral, achieve net zero energy, zero water, and zero waste. Advancements in engineering and material ingenuity, and the falling cost of dynamic building modeling software, and 3D imaging and fabrication is already changing the market. A diverse panel of experts from urban design, real estate development, local authorities, and green building will explore the future of high performance design, including innovations in distributed energy generation, highly adaptable infrastructure, and building integrated agriculture. 5pm drinks, 5:30 to 7pm presentation. Book now.

Tour: Microturbines at Astor Wine and Spirits
January 28th at 399 Lafayette
To counteract the intense energy consumption needed to chill saké and wine, Astor Wines recycles its own electricity using two natural gas-powered microturbines in their storage cellar. Bruce Beckwith and Cory Glick of RSP Systems will host a tour of the facility and introduce the Capstone microturbine technology at Astor Wine, which is used widely throughout New York City. Andrew Fisher, president of Astor Wines & Spirits, will discuss the costs and benefits of their commitment to sustainable practices from grape to bottle. 6 to 7pm, includes refreshments. Buy tickets.

LEED for New Construction Technical Review Workshop
January 30th at Pfizer
This course forges beyond the basics to take you through the intricacies of the LEED for New Construction v2.2 Rating System. Using examples, case studies and exercises to reinforce learning, attendees should have a firm grasp of USGBC and LEED. Although a solid overview of the building certification process is provided, including exam review, the course does not guarantee a passing score on the LEED Professional Accreditation Exam. Please see the LEED Accredited Professional Candidate Handbook for further exam details. Full day program from 8:30am to 5pm, includes a light breakfast, lunch, and coffee. Sign up.

Brendan Owens on The New LEED
February 4th at Bloomberg LP
From Brendan Owens, Vice-President of Technical Development at U.S. Green Building Council national, a detailed overview of what’s new and improved about LEED 2009. He will explore the technical changes that have led to the re-weighting of the LEED credits, introduce "the bookshelf system" and regional bonus credits, and provide details on how LEED Online has been restructured. Refreshments from 5:30pm, presentation from 6:15 to 7:15pm, Q&A until 7:45pm. Book tickets now!

High Performance Building Salon: Gordon Holness on Building Information Modeling (BIM)
February 12th at Knoll Showroom
Gordon Holness, a long-time BIM evangelist and one of the nation’s leading mechanical engineers, will speak on the promise and possibilities of building information modeling. This discussion will involve the emerging software technologies and their potential to streamline the integrated design process from early design decisions to intelligent construction documents through to post-occupancy operations and maintenance. Drinks from 5:30pm, presentation from 6:15pm, Q&A until 7:45pm. Space is limited, please buy tickets now.