Is Donald Trump the Next Green Builder?

To many, Donald Trump epitomizes anti-green living, since he is world famous for garish buildings, luxury jet setting, ostentatious interiors, extravagant parties and voracious consumption. However, love him or hate him, the bombastic, press-savvy Trump clearly has influence over popular trends and attitudes, from his real estate ventures to his magazine and TV shows.

So the fact that "The Donald" may be greening up his act may be big news for the green world. Specifically, his "Trump on the Ocean" complex at the popular Jones Beach on New York's Long Island, now under construction, will include an impressive array of eco-friendly features.

The catering hall, nightclub and restaurant center will use ozone-friendly refrigerants in the kitchen and will be at least 20 percent constructed of recycled materials. No tropical hardwoods will be used unless they have been certified green by the independent Forest Stewardship Council. The roof will be white to help cool the building, and paints and carpets will not off-gas toxic vapors. An extensive recycling program will be set up.

The greening of the Trump Organization has not gone down entirely smoothly, however, according to media reports. New York officials insisted on sustainable features based on a Pataki administration order covering government-owned sites. After alleged tense negotiations, Trump's camp agreed on certain green features, and will be seeking certification for the structure as a "green" building.

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