Remodelers are doing their part to close what some people call the “green gap,” the chasm between growing demand for energy- and resource-efficient homes and an insufficient supply of hands-on expertise. A growing list of training and educational resources — some of them free — are making it easier for production managers and crews to acquire that expertise.
For instance, besides the almost overwhelming wealth of information (much of it disputed) online, you can download free guidelines, checklists, and manuals from a number of organizations.
Minnesota GreenStar’s materials would benefit remodelers in cold northern climates, says Michael Anschel, principal of Minneapolis green remodeling company Otogawa-Anschel and of Verified Green, a consulting organization. If you’re in a “dry hot or dry temperate” climate, he likes the free downloads from Built Green Santa Barbara. For remodelers in the South, he suggests downloading materials from EarthCraft House.
Green Certification Opportunities
More time on your hands? Consider a formal education or certification program. From recycling demo materials to alternative framing methods, a huge range of classes exists. Some are offered only in classrooms, others online, and a few can be customized as private workshops in your office.
“The CGP [certified green professional] is the fastest-growing designation program at NAHB,” says Therese Crahan of the National Association of Homebuilders Remodelers.
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