Sisters of Charity of New York) – Bronx, New York

Convent of Mount Saint Vincent- Bronx, New York
Sisters Hill Farm – Stanfordville, New York


Contact
Sr. Mary Ann Garisto, SC, Director of Ecological/Global Concerns (mgaristo@scny.org) or Sr. Regina, Murphy, SC, Property Manager (rmurphy@scny.org), Sisters of Charity of New York, 6301 Riverdale Ave., Bronx, NY 10471; 718.549.9200

Convent of Mount Saint Vincent- Bronx, New York

To improve energy efficiency, the sisters replaced all incandescent light fixtures to T-8 fluorescent, and incandescent lamp bulbs to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). Two convent buildings were converted from steam heat to hot water heat in order to better control the heat output. Radiant floor heat has been installed in the basement of one of the two buildings. In response to the urgent need to address climate change, the Sisters of Charity are committed to support nation-wide efforts to promote renewal energy.

The sisters have been particularly conscious of the content of the material they’ve been using for renovations. Bamboo flooring was installed in their solarium, recycled rubber tires were the source for the flooring in their physical therapy room floor. Shingles for one of their buildings can be recycled, and materials are reused in renovations.

Maximizing the use of daylight is important to the indoor environmental quality of the convent. Preferring the look of stone walls in the basement of one building, it was restored instead of using sheetrock. The entire basement was left as mostly open space to allow for daylight to light the entire space. A French door from another building was used in the renovation to facilitate light transfer.

To reduce waste, the sisters recycle paper, ink cartridges, and electronics. The use of disposables is discouraged as the sisters are encouraged to bring their own beverage mugs to meetings. Reusable eating utensils and flatware are used as much as possible. Bottled water is not served at meetings and members have received much education about the negative aspects of bottled water.

To reduce transportation-related emissions, members are encouraged to use fuel-efficient vehicles, mass transit as much as possible, and to car pool and walk.

The sisters have an Office for Ecological/Global Concerns which monitors issues related to creation care and sustainability. The office provides information regarding current ecological issues, encourages advocacy through communications with elected representatives , and encourages members and associates to reduce their carbon footprint .


Sisters Hill Farm, Stanfordville, New York

The production and use of local and seasonal food has been an important emphasis of the Sisters of Charity for many years. Sisters Hill Farm is a 250-member Community Supported Agriculture farm sponsored by the Sisters of Charity. The farm provides wholesome, healthy, pesticide-free food for its members. A portion of the weekly harvest is donated to people in need and organizations that serve the disadvantaged. Sustainable land use is practiced at the farm and energy consciousness guides all operations at the farm. A state of the art, zoned computerized irrigation system increases water use efficiency and reduces water consumption.

Sisters Hill Farm is a model for those interested in establishing solar as an alternative to fossil fuels. In 2006, twelve solar panels were installed at the farm supplying 2.5 kW (30% ) of the electricity for the barn and apprentice residence. In August of 2009 an additional twenty eight panels will be installed which will supply an additional 7.3 kW (87%).