Green Building Programs for Projects of Any Size
Go forward by doing your environmental certification homework
By Andrew Hunt, FrontDoor.com | Published: 3/27/2008
Originally established by the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, the EarthCraft House program has grown and expanded to become a leading source for green building certification in the Southeast. The voluntary program touts itself as a blueprint for healthy, comfortable homes that reduce utility bills and protect the environment. It now offers certification to builders in Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Georgia.
With a point-system approach to certification, the EarthCraft House program allows builders many energy-efficient and resource-conserving options in the home's design. Beyond just the house, the program takes into account jobsite waste, homeowner education, proximity to mass transit and even light pollution reduction. This flexibility accommodates projects of different sizes and styles looking for a green building program.
Before final certification is given, the home must score above a certain threshold on a scoring worksheet (similar to the LEED for Homes program) and must pass a final inspection by an EarthCraft House inspector.
More Green Building Programs:
NAHB Model Green Building Guidelines
LEED for Homes
Energy Star Qualified New Homes
Earth Advantage
Austin Energy's Residential Green Building Programs
