New York City is perhaps one of the most famous cities in the world and a popular destination for travelers from all over. Boasting iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, New York is always bustling with cutting-edge culture, fashion, music, art, film, and more. Despite the decadence that may be associated with the city, New York manages to remain progressive and be a global leader in eco-consciousness. Visit the concrete jungle, follow tips on being eco-friendly, and be surprised by the many green activities available in the Big Apple.
Sightseeing Tours
One of the best ways to get to know a city, its local culture, and history is on a walking tour. Since New York is no stranger to tourists, a variety of agencies offer tours covering a range of topics and interests like history, food, nature, architecture, and more. Whether by foot, bike, or even Segway, enjoy sightseeing in the city by keeping it green. In just a few short hours you’ll manage to experience the city through the perspective of a local guide and see many of New York’s must-see landmarks.
The High Line
A former railroad track, The High Line is now an elevated park that runs along a portion of the west side of Manhattan. Take a leisurely walk along its trail and enjoy interesting views of the surrounding cityscape. The High Line’s mission is to promote connections between neighborhoods and to reimagine the role of public spaces, both key attributes of creating a more sustainable world.
Union Square Greenmarket and Eco-Friendly Eating
Going green doesn’t mean sacrificing tasty meals. The farm-to-table concept that uses fresh, quality, organic ingredients from the region is thriving in New York City. Support local farms and promote sustainability by consciously choosing to eat at eco-friendly establishments. Explore the Union Square Greenmarket and have your own eco-friendly gastronomic tour. Connect with the local farming community as you browse over 100 local vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and other goods. This open-air market has been in operation since the 1970s and is found in Union Square year-round.
Central Park
Referred to as the city’s lung, Central Park is an iconic place in and of itself. Explore the green space on a bike tour that takes you along interesting rock-lined trails and follows the streams running through the park. Rent a boat and paddle around the lake. Take a leisurely walk and admire the different sculptures and statues found throughout the park. Central Park is host to diverse wildlife in its wooded areas, lawns and varied exposed bedrock. Experience nature in the heart of the city that never sleeps.
Rooftop Farms
Located across the city, rooftop and urban farms are an emerging practice in sustainability. The green roof concept is growing in New York, offering guests the chance to visit the farms, see their processes firsthand, and buy local goods. Some of the farms offer spectacular views of the city as well. Many rooftop farms off tours and workshops, so don’t hesitate to book with a local provider and get involved.
Accommodations and Getting Around
Eco-friendly hotels, boutiques, modern buildings, restaurants, museums, and even dance clubs are popping up all over New York. They make use of energy-efficient light bulbs, recycled building materials, biodegradable utensils, and solar power. When booking your accommodation, opt to stay somewhere that runs on wind power, or at the very least is eco-friendly certified.
Choosing to make your way through New York City by car can oftentimes be more of a hassle than convenient and isn’t necessarily the best for the environment anyway. Get from one location to the next more efficiently with public transportation that includes a vast subway system, busses and even ferries. Over 50 percent of New Yorkers use public transit, and in Manhattan over 70 percent of people don’t even own a car. If you do need to rent, pick a hybrid or electric car.
