Source: Woodworking Network

The Composite Panel Association (CPA) submitted extensive public comments last week criticizing EPA’s proposed formaldehyde emissions regulations for ignoring specific Congressional directives and the established model in use by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The proposed rules, released for public comment in May, are intended to implement the Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Products Act, signed by President Obama in 2010.

Source: BuildingGreen, Inc.     By Brent Ehrlich

New federal rules would mirror California standards and address concerns about third-party testing.

Source: GLASSOLUTIONS

Lead-free toughened enamelled glass EMALIT® EVOLUTION can now be manufactured into sealed units in a range of 11 standard colours in 10 days, as a result of a £50,000 investment in new production facilities by GLASSOLUTIONS. 

Source: Construction & Demolition Recycling

A new report from Navigant Research (www.navigant.com) forecasts the demand for green buildings and the materials that go into them will grow from $116 billion in 2013 to more than $254 billion in 2020.

Source: PRNewswire

Materials in Green Buildings

Timber, Steel and Metals, Concrete, Glass, Insulation, and Other Materials Utilized for Structural, Building Envelope, and Interior and Finishes Applications in Commercial and Residential Green Buildings.

Source: Greener Ideal

If you’re designing your dream home and you like to keep an eye on your carbon footprint, you might be concerned about the impact of all your construction plans. But don’t despair! There are steps that you can take to limit your emissions and minimise the effect that your new home has on the environment.

One way to do this is to use eco-conscious companies whenever you contract work out to a third party. From the architects through to the builders, choosing to give your business to those professionals who have a good green policy will limit your impact as well as sending a message to the industry as a whole.

Another way of making a difference is to insist that environmentally friendly resources are used as often as possible within the construction of your home. To get you started, here’s a list of 5 eco-friendly materials that you could incorporate into your plans.