Monthly Archives: November 2010

New Federal Government Study Concludes…

A federal government study concluded that by 2015 the cost of generating power from rooftop solar panels will be the same as the cost of power from the electrical grid.  The study also found that the cost could even become … Continue reading

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White Roofs Alliance.

A new global initiative was launched in the summer orf 2010 under the name of White Roofs Alliance (WRA). It is dedicated to advancing policies and actions that increase the solar reflectance of buildings and pavements as a low or … Continue reading

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Cool Roof Law in Montreal

The mayor of Rosemont-Petite Patrie has proposed a bylaw requiring all new roofs to be cool.  The mayor cites public health, environmental and energy efficiency benefits.  Reportedly, about 121 Montrealers die due to extreme heat and 818 from air pollution … Continue reading

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Cool Roofs in the Press.

An article was recently featured on CNBC and in the Washington Post touting the fact that cool roofs can be a quick and effective solution for saving energy in the summer and fall heat. In the article, the author joins … Continue reading

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New Initiative for Local Governments

Local Governments for Sustainability USA has launched a Climate Resilient Communities Program to help local governments learn how to adapt to climate change. The site guides communities through the process of assessing vulnerabilities, setting goals for resilience, and developing adaptation … Continue reading

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Next Version of LEED.

The public comment draft of the next version of LEED is a general update and expansion of the technical content and organization of LEED. By simultaneously aligning and harmonizing inefficient duplication of LEED credits and expanding the bookshelf to include … Continue reading

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FTC Green Guides Updated.

The Federal Trade Commission has proposed changes to their Green Guides.  The changes include new guidance on marketers use of product certifications and seals of approval, renewable energy claims, renewable material claims, and carbon offset claims. The FTC is seeking … Continue reading

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New ASHRAE GreenGuide.

The third edition of ASHRAE GreenGuide is now available. It is an easy-to-use reference with information on almost any subject that should be considered in green-building design. The GreenTips found throughout the edition highlight techniques, processes, measures, or special systems … Continue reading

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Introducing the Smog Eating Tile.

Monier Lifetile has introduced “smog eating tile” concrete roofing that the manufacturer claims will reduce the amount of pollution in the atmosphere. According to the company, titanium dioxide incorporated into the blending process allows the surface to react with sunlight … Continue reading

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ASHRAE Standard 90.2 Energy Efficient Design.

The ASHRAE Standard 90.2 Energy Efficient Design of Low Rise Residential Buildings provides minimum requirements for such building designs. A revised version will be a joint effort between ASHRAE and the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES). The aim … Continue reading

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