Blog
Chemical Industry Attacks LEED: We Check the Facts
Chemical and plastics trade groups have attacked LEED and the federal government's use of it. We separate the facts from the fabrications.
by P.J. Melton
This story is cross-posted from our sister site, BuildingGreen.com.
A developing focus on chemicals of concern in the LEED rating systems could make federal buildings less energy-efficient, according to the American Chemistry Council (ACC).
How to Choose a Sealant That Works
Any sealant can perform well in the right application, but knowing which to pick for your job is another thing. Our guide to sealants and how to use them.
by Peter Yost
This is part of an ongoing series. Read all the Sticky Business posts here.
Photo: DAP
When selecting a sealant, these properties are typically the most important:
Genuine Progress Indicators
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Recognizing that GDP has significant limitations, Vermont has become the first state to formally embrace a "genuine progress indicator" as a metric of well-being.
With the tracking of a GPI, there may be more incentive to protect beautiful places like May Pond in northern Vermont.Photo Credit: Alex Wilson
LEED 2012 Postponed to 2013, Renamed LEED v4
In response to a growing outcry from the market, USGBC is postponing plans to ballot the next version of LEED until 2013.
by Nadav Malin
In response to growing concerns from the market, USGBC is postponing plans to ballot the next version of LEED until 2013.
Top Six Things LEED Consultants Do Wrong in Specs
Sometimes strategies employed by LEED consultants can work against the project's sustainability goals. Here are the top six problems we see.
by Mark Kalin
LEED consultants are paid to lend their expertise to achieve a project’s LEED certification goals. Their decisions focus on achieving credits and their participation is absolutely vital to the project, but some can actually work against the project's sustainability goals. Here are the top six problems I see.
New Concern About Pesticides in Exterior Paints
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Although exterior paints have moved beyond lead and the most toxic solvents, new coatings contain biocides that may pose a different set of concerns.
Biocides play an important role in a paint's durability by protecting it from mildew, but biocides cannot make up for poor application practices.Photo: Bob Cusumano, Coatings Consultants, Inc.
Cool Window and Glazing Products from the AIA Convention
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Glazing and window manufacturers showed off some highly innovative products at the 2012 AIA Convention in Washington, DC
Pythagoras Solar's new BIPV glass was one of two innovative glazing products on display at the Guardian booth at the AIA Convention. Click on image to enlarge.Photo Credit: Alex Wilson
Crucial State Incentives for Small Wind Turbines Still Need Work
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As the small wind turbine market feels the pain of temporary holds on state incentive programs, turbine certification could bring the stability and improve the market’s reputation.
New Jersey placed a rebate incentive program on hold due to catastrophic mechanical failures of multiple small wind turbines.Photo Credit: World Future Energy Summit