What makes a Product Green

Products are divided into five basic “green building” categories

pSaving Energy

nProducts that either reduce heating and cooling loads, such as building orientation, high-quality windows, and insulation
nProducts that use less energy, such as Energy Star-rated appliances, efficient heating and cooling systems and florescent lamps
nProducts that produce sustainable energy, such as solar electricity generation systems

p Conserving Water

nProducts that conserve water above and beyond what is required by law, such as dual-flush toilets and under-sink flow restrictors
nProducts that consume less water, such as native landscaping and drought-tolerant plantings

pContributing to a Safe & Healthy Indoor Environment

nProducts that don’t release significant pollutants into the building, such as no-VOC paints, formaldehyde-free cabinets, etc.
nProducts that block the spread of or remove indoor pollutants, such as effective ventilation equipment, and air/water filters
nProducts that warn occupants of health hazards, such as carbon monoxide & radon detectors

pProtecting Natural Resources

nProducts with recycled content, such as carpet, tile, wallboard, and wood replacements made from polystyrene
nProducts made from agricultural waste material, such as wheat straw, sunflower stalks, and rice hulls
nProducts that reduce material use, such as drywall clips and concrete pigments that turn concrete slabs into finished floors
nProducts made from rapidly renewable materials, such as bamboo flooring, natural linoleum & cork, textiles made from wool, sisal, hemp and organic cotton
nWood products from sustainably managed forests, certified according to the principles of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
nSalvaged products, such as bricks, flooring, lumber and plumbing fixtures

p Reducing a Building’s Impact on the Community

nProducts that mitigate the effects of stormwater runoff, such as permeable pavers, green roofs and rainwater collection cisterns
nProducts that provide easy access to alternative modes of transportation such as bike racks and storage units
nProducts that do not require chemical pesticides or treatment, such as plastic lumber, physical termite barriers and native vegetation