Green Building Experts Convene To Drive Progress Toward A More Sustainable Future

Newswise — SYRACUSE, N.Y. — March 2, 2026 — The future of sustainable building takes center stage in Syracuse this March, as the 24th Annual New York State Green Building Conference rallies industry leaders around one unifying call: to shape a greener, healthier world.

The conference, hosted in partnership by the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse University, and New York Upstate, takes place March 5 and 6 at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 100 East Onondaga St. This year’s event centers on the theme “Adapt, Evolve, Advance,” underscoring the industry’s shared responsibility to meet the challenges of creating a sustainable, high‑performance built environment.

“As we work toward a greener future, this conference brings together professionals, advocates, and innovators focused on making meaningful progress. ESF is pleased to play a role in convening those committed to this important work,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney.

This year’s conference features two distinguished keynote speakers:

• Gaya Herrington, an internationally recognized thought leader in sustainability, transformative research, and advocacy.
• Kevin Lanahan, senior vice president of External Affairs & Corporate Communications for the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO).

Attendees will hear from these influential voices as well as a wide range of experts presenting in breakout sessions throughout the two‑day event. 

Participants will explore how professionals across the green building sector are adapting, evolving, and advancing to meet today’s climate and environmental demands. Sessions will cover a range of critical issues, including:

• Local climate action initiatives led by the city of Syracuse and C&S Companies
• The advancement of multifamily construction through passive housing strategies and emerging funding opportunities
• The ongoing evolution of the New York state electric grid
• Adaptations the green building industry must make to foster a healthier world and more sustainable future

Complete conference information and registration is available at https://cvent.me/XyDVQk.

The New York State Green Building Conference, hosted in partnership by the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse University, and New York Upstate, brings together leaders committed to advancing environmentally responsible design, construction, and operational practices. Now in its 24th year, the event continues to serve as a hub for collaboration, education, and forward‑thinking solutions.

About SUNY ESF

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.