Each issue, this section highlights sustainability-related information from a different GBI Supporter.

NAHB: Emphasis on Practical Options for Mainstream Builders

Since introducing its Model Green Home Building Guidelines two years ago, the NAHB has worked to show mainstream builders that energy-efficient, healthier and environmentally-friendly homes don’t have to be outrageously expensive—or overly complex to build.

In terms of cost, the NAHB points out that many green building techniques—such as positioning a home to take advantage of natural light or using fewer materials—are cost-effective for the builder and also result in long-term operational savings.

“Homes built today are already 100 percent more energy-efficient than homes built in the 1970s, thanks to more durable roof coverings, insulated windows, increased insulation and high-efficiency heating, cooling and water heating equipment,” said Brian Catalde, president of the NAHB. “But we’re also benefiting from an influx of green products that are readily available, from better insulation to chemically neutral paints and flooring, natural landscaping products and compact fluorescent bulbs.

“In most cases, today’s green homes look like any other home in the neighborhood and can be replicated in quantity by large-scale building companies. I think it’s safe to say that green building has officially entered the mainstream.”

In addition to the guidelines, the NAHB promotes green building through an awards program and, from March 25-27, will host its ninth annual National Green Building Conference in St. Louis, MO. Expected to attract more than 1,000 builders, architects and engineers, this year’s conference will include a keynote presentation by William McDonough, the originator of “cradle-to-cradle” philosophy and a world renowned practitioner of ecologically, socially and economically intelligent architecture.

For more information on the NAHB and its programs, please visit www.nahb.org.