Resident Green Committees (RGCs) are groups of concerned New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) residents who are committed to fighting climate change and preserving public housing. We plan projects, organize events, and educate residents in their developments about environmental and energy issues.  The RGCs are part of NYCHA’s Green Agenda, the Housing Authority’s program to promote environmental sustainability and reduce energy costs.

By increasing the energy efficiency of NYCHA buildings, improving green spaces, planting trees, exploring sustainable energy solutions and connecting residents with “green collar” jobs, NYCHA will decrease its carbon footprint, save on energy costs, and help preserve public housing. Resident participation is crucial to the success of the Green Agenda.

Through the Resident Green Committees residents contribute their knowledge, skills and abilities to help beautify the developments, save energy and create community engagement and pride.  Resident Green Committees are independent and resident led. They elect their own leaders, write their own mission statements and decide what projects to take on. In the past year, Resident Green Committees throughout the five boroughs have organized clean up days, established recycling programs, planted gardens, built tree guards, received grant money, and partnered with other organizations and businesses for job trainings, tree stewardship courses and pest prevention workshops. Since collective action is the only way to fight climate change all residents, including seniors, youth, parents and people of all ages and backgrounds are invited to join the RGCs.

By working together we can make our developments cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable places to live.