It is always good to see that other blogs, especially one as highly regarded as Treehugger, agree with your assessments.  In a previous article titled, New AC Unit vs Window Tint, we determined that window tint is much more affordable an better ROI (return on investment) than both a replacement AC or replacement windows.

At more than $5k for a new central AC unit or over $250 per replacement window, window film easily becomes the most economical choice at $2.25 per square feet for professional DIY window film.

Treehugger reports that National Trust for Historical Preservation states:

… a complete myth that replacement windows will save you money. In fact, they go so far as to say that the payback period for replacement windows is probably twice as long as the life of the window.

The preservation society offers more tips:

Whether the window film industry likes it or not, the consumers increasingly sees window film as part of the green product movement.  They are reacting to the energy saving qualities of window film more than the aesthetic qualities, and the window film industry should embrace this opportunity.

It is nice to see Beakeart Films (SolarGard) join Huper Optik in making the manufacturing of window film a greener industrial process.  Excerpt from the official press release.

Bekaert Specialty Films established an
Environmental Management System (EMS) to ensure the company`s activities and
products have minimal impact on the environment. Bekaert Specialty Films` EMS
helps monitor and improve energy efficiency, resource conservation, waste
management and chemical control. Additionally the EMS aims to:

* Reduce the environmental impact of BSF`s manufacturing operations;
* Improve the work environment and create cross-functional teams that foster
awareness, understanding and responsibility across the organization; and
* Enhance relations with the community, regulators and stakeholders.