Real estate developer Empire Communities has been named Green Builder of the Year by the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD). The award recognizes companies that are leading the way in sustainability and design.

“We are extremely grateful to have been selected for this award,” says Paul Golini Jr., executive vice-president at Empire. “We strive to create the best possible homes to meet our customers’ evolving needs, and plan to continue innovating to make a positive environmental impact in the long-run.”

Empire Communities adheres to the Energy Star standard, building homes with features such as upgraded insulation, taped ducts to control the air, and high-performance windows. The company also offers geothermal heating and cooling in select projects.