Green Building Resource Group
Think Green. Build Green. Sell Green.
Think Green.
NAHB and CRBRA help building professionals become proficient in a "whole-house" approach to green building, with an emphasis on project management, building science, and consumer behavior and how they are key to cost-effective, marketable green homes. The International Builders' Show and the National Green Building Conference offer cutting-edge education and the latest green building products and materials. Certified Green Professional and Master Certified Green Professional classes are available at these events and through CRBRA.
Build Green.
Design your green home, development, or remodeling project with the guidance of the ICC-700 National Green Building Standard. You can also choose the National Green Building Certification Program powered by the NAHB Research Center for the additional credibility of cost-effective, third-party certification. An Online Scoring Tool, list of accredited verifiers, and certification details are also available online.
Sell Green.
Start with CRBRA for green education, networking, and marketing assistance. Builders and remodelers can participate in green parades, home shows, and expos hosted by CRBRA. NAHB maintains a list of industry professionals with CGP or Master CGP designations on its consumer-friendly website. Outstanding green projects are honored in local competitions as well as the annual National Green Building Awards, given each year at the National Green Building Conference.
What Makes a Home Green?
Responsible lot and site development.
The home is positioned to take advantage of heat and light from the sun. Natural site features are preserved and protected wherever possible.
Energy efficiency.
Appliances, insulation, doors, windows, heating and air conditioning, and the home's design work together to conserve energy resources and reduce utility bills.
Water efficiency.
Water heaters, toilets, faucets, and drought-tolerant landscaping conserve water inside and out.
Resource efficiency.
Materials are selected for durability, origin, and recycled content, while waste-management strategies reduce the environmental impact of the home's construction.
Indoor environmental quality.
Appropriate ventilation techniques, along with paints, sealants, and adhesives made without harmful compounds help improve a home's indoor environment for the entire family.
Homeowner education.
Because knowing how to operate and maintain a green home is just as important as building one!
ICC-700: The Residential Standard for Green
The ICC 700 National Green Building Standard is the national rating system of choice for industry professionals interested in building authentic, cost-effective green homes and subdivisions. The only standard for green residential construction approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the ICC-700 gives developers, builders, and remodelers flexibility to design, score, and certify homes, renovations, additions, and land developments with the features their buyers prefer and can afford. Projects must meet progressively more stringent benchmarks in energy, water, and resource efficiency; lot and site development; indoor environmental quality; and operation and maintenance education to achieve scores at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Emerald levels. Green projects can be certified through the National Green Building Certification Program, powered by the NAHB Research Center. Learn more about the National Green Building Standard.
Additional Links & Resources
ANSI Green Building Standard
Green building certification standard guidelines
EcoHome Magazine Online
For the latest trends in eco homebuilding technologies
ENERGY STAR
Website for federal government's energy savings program; includes information on ENERGY STAR products, home improvement tips, appliance rebates, and tax credits
GreenBuilder
Comprehensive media for the new Green Building economy
GreenBuildingAdvisor.com
Source of information for building, designing, and remodeling green homes
NYSERDA
Website for the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority; includes information on NYS-specific energy news, incentives, and programs
CRBRA - 1202 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
Phone: 518.690.0766 | Fax: 518.690.0767
