QuietRock 516 Soundproof Drywall is Only Product ‘Tuned’ for Single-Family Homes SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Quiet Solution announced today a new product to help families sleep easier, and knock out noise from their teenagers’ stereos, spouse’s home theater or their laundry room. QuietRock® 516 provides the lowest-cost soundproofing solution for single-family residences and takes its place as the seventh member of the world’s best-selling family of soundproof drywall products. The product, premiering this week at PCBC, one of the nation’s largest building shows, was voted one of the top 10 Coolest Products by a panel of 7,000 builders, architects, real estate professionals, marketing experts and other building industry leaders attending PCBC. “QuietRock 516 has been designed specifically to deliver spectacular noise reduction performance on 16-inch-on-center wood stud construction…and 16-inch construction is how many single-family homes are built,” said Steve Weiss, vice president of marketing for Quiet Solution. “This ½ -inch thick drywall replacement takes out 70 percent of the noise heard between rooms – reducing the blare of a stereo down to ‘library quiet’ in the next room.” The product is a problem-solver and lifestyle-enhancer for millions, like composite decking or insulated glass windows. According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, new single-family residences are being started at a rate of more than 1.2 million per year. This product is also easily used for remodeling in scores of millions of existing single-family residences. “Like our other Quiet®-brand soundproofing products, our new QuietRock 516 makes it easy, low cost and reliable to get the noise reduction customers demand,” said Weiss. “We’ve applied our science and technology to tackle the acoustic challenges that come with 16-inch construction. The result is a product that outperforms any other product on 16-inch centered studs and is particularly welcome to homeowners and their contractors.” Other QuietRock models include the lowest-cost on the market 510, the 525 for lowest-cost multi-family party walls that meet code; the 527, designed specifically for UltraSTEEL studs and endorsed by Dietrich Metal Framing; and the highest-performance, THX-certified 545THX. The new product is made using specially engineered thin dense panel layers along with Quiet Solution’s proprietary viscoelastic polymer technology. The result is a panel that is engineered and tuned to work best on 16-inch construction. QuietRock 516 hangs and finishes like standard drywall, making it exceptionally easy to use. A single sheet delivers the same noise reduction as eight sheets of standard gypsum. Quiet Solution’s high quality soundproofing products, in volume production since 2002, have gained the highest ratings from professionals, customers and partners in the construction industry. A key advantage of using Quiet Solution’s breakthrough soundproofing products is the high level of noise reduction combined with ease of installation at the lowest cost. This enables quiet buildings, straightforward use by builders, and ultimately happy clients and homeowners.

Showcase of New Technology Highlights Texas’ Green- and cleantech Future AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The inaugural Clean Energy Venture Summit drew an eye-opening 400 attendants, making it the largest clean-tech summit to be held in Texas. It was sponsored by the Clean Energy Incubator and Austin Energy. Top green- and clean-tech visionaries from across the country discussed new technologies and explored efforts by local companies to make Texas the renewable energy leader for the 21st century. Summit topics included the utility of the future, green buildings, clean transportation and the smart grid. Speakers included James Woolsey, former director of the CIA, who discussed clean transportation solutions such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and Gary Cowger, group vice president of General Motors. He talked about the Big Three automakers’ participation in the United States Climate Action Partnership and how businesses and environmental organizations have come together to pressure the federal government to enact legislation to require reductions of greenhouse gas emissions. Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson presented statistics on the future of windmills in the Gulf of Mexico. He outlined how the near-constant breezes and access to excellent power transmission lines create an almost ideal situation for producing renewable electricity with no carbon output. “The overwhelming support of this conference highlights the public and private efforts to find solutions for America’s dependence on foreign energy and growing carbon footprint as Texas enters a new age of energy leadership,” said Joel Serface, director of the Clean Energy Incubator and conference organizer. “These technologies have global applicability and are of great interest to consumers, utilities and investors.” An exciting first for the industry was a competition in which 20 start-up companies presented their products and services for an opportunity to be accepted into the Clean Energy Incubator, a chance to collaborate with Austin Energy, Austin’s electric utility, and garner venture funding from a group of leading venture capitalists in attendance. “There is a lot of interest in conservation, clean-tech and reclaimed building materials as a way to reduce overall consumption costs,” said Tom Watson, founder of AccuWater. “The summit allowed some of the best new technologies the opportunity to present to industry leaders and leading investors. It has also been a way to get the attention of end consumers.”

Solar Homes with SunPower SunTile Selling at Twice the Pace of Standard Homes SAN JOSE, Calif., May 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- For eight communities in the Whitney Ranch residential development in Rocklin, Calif., outside Sacramento, an average of 1.9 homes have sold each month since 2006. A ninth community, Grupe Homes' Carsten Crossings, stands out with more than twice as many sales, or an average of 4.6 homes sold per month over the same time period. Four miles down the road in West Roseville's West Park residential development, homes in Lennar Homes' Laureate, Wayfarer and Ironcrest communities are selling almost twice as fast as comparable homes in six neighboring West Park communities. A notable difference in the homes at Carsten Crossings, Laureate, Wayfarer and Ironcrest is the inclusion of a SunPower SunTile(R) solar power system as a standard feature on every home. The SunTile system integrates into the roof construction and features the highest efficiency solar cells available on the commercial market. Both Lennar and Grupe have also incorporated energy-efficient features into these homes, further reducing monthly home energy bills. "Grupe and Lennar's home designs in these communities include the installation of high-performing solar power systems combined with high-quality energy efficiency features," said Bill Kelly, general manager, New Homes Division, for SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ:SPWR) , a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency, commercially available solar cells, solar panels, and solar systems. "This combination of solar technology and energy efficiency results in very low utility costs for the homeowner while improving home comfort. This is a great value for homeowners, and an investment by Grupe and Lennar towards cleaner air and a better environment." "Homebuyers value solar systems today because they can significantly reduce their electric bills and help lower greenhouse gas emissions," said Mark Fischer, senior vice president of The Grupe Company. "Families at Carsten Crossings are achieving an average of $120 per month in savings, and enjoy the satisfaction of generating their own clean, renewable energy." "The SunPower solar power systems are well integrated into our homes' design and look great. They operate simply, requiring no effort by our customers to enjoy the monthly savings," said Jeff Panasiti, president of Lennar Homes' Sacramento division. "As a builder, including roof integrated solar in the homes' construction makes great sense. It should come as no surprise that these homes sell faster." Fischer, Kelly and Bill Dakin, senior engineer at Davis Energy Group, will be presenting more information on this trend this week at PCBC 2007 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. Their presentation, "Selling Green to Earn Green" is scheduled from 11 a.m. to noon on Friday, June 1, in Moscone West, Room 3020. SunPower is also participating at PCBC as an exhibitor, hosting Booth #5111 in Moscone's North Hall.

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rudolph and Sletten General Contractors announced today that it has received the Gold LEED CI (Commercial Interiors) certification for the build out of its new 40,000 square foot Corporate Headquarters at the Pacific Shores Center in Redwood City. The project is one of a handful of LEED 2.0 (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) CI certified projects in the Western U.S. CAS Architects, Mountain View, was the architect of record. The U.S. Green Building Council developed the Commercial Interiors rating system to encourage the development of more sustainable tenant spaces. The Council makes the award based on six areas of sustainability for commercial interiors, including the use of recycled materials, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, water efficiency, design innovation, and the use of a sustainable site. As a leader in the green building movement, Rudolph and Sletten has well over 100 LEED Accredited Professionals in-house, ranking it among the top for general contracting firms, and making it the leading green builder in California. “This certification reflects Rudolph and Sletten’s commitment to sustainable construction,” said Gary Walz, Executive Vice President of Rudolph and Sletten, who is the company’s highest ranking LEED accredited professional. “When we decided to relocate our corporate office to Pacific Shores, our first decision was that our facility must be LEED Gold or better.” Rudolph and Sletten has been selected for many of California’s leading sustainable construction projects, including the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Molecular Foundry (Silver LEED certified); Sun Microsystems Santa Clara Campus; Shaklee World Headquarters and the Alum Rock Youth Center in San Jose. Currently, Rudolph and Sletten is building Moffett Towers, a 1.8 million square foot office park for Jay Paul Company which is seeking LEED certification. Nick Pera, Rudolph and Sletten’s Preconstruction Executive who managed the LEED process, said that the CI Gold certification included credits for recycling, using local materials, and improving indoor environmental quality. “The build out included using a large amount of recycled materials in the building, and recycling 93% of all the waste instead of sending it to a landfill,” he said. Pera added that 75% of the project space receives substantial amounts of daylight, which contributes to indoor environmental quality and occupant comfort. “Countertops were manufactured from recycled glass from Berkeley,” said Pera. “The casework was also manufactured locally, adding to the use of local products. We have also placed signage throughout the building to educate the staff and visitors about the green aspects of the building.”

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Lynn L. Jacobs today announced that Doug Hensel, Assistant Deputy Director for the Division of Codes and Standards has been named to the American National Standards Institute’s Consensus Committee. The Committee is charged with developing the National Green Building StandardTM which will provide a common benchmark for recognizing and rewarding green residential design, development, and construction practices. “Doug’s selection to serve on this Committee is well-deserved recognition for his many contributions to the improved safety of residential building construction and of California’s leadership in taking action to reduce the negative impacts of human enterprise on our environment,” said Director Jacobs. “Doug is the only public official from California to be named to the Committee and I am confident he will represent the people of California and the goals of the Administration knowledgeably and with exceptional diligence.” Mr. Hensel was appointed Assistant Chief of the Housing Standards Section for the Codes and Standards Division at the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on July 7, 2006. Since January 2006, he has served as Acting State Housing Law Program Manager for HCD with oversight responsibility for the State Housing Law Code Program. From 2001 to 2006, Doug served as a District Representative for HCD developing code adoption packages. Prior to HCD, Doug spent 17 years working in local Building Departments as an inspector, plans examiner, and project manager. The National Association of Home Builders Research Council and the International Codes Council, the co-sponsors of the effort, intend for the Standard to highlight ways a mainstream home builder can effectively weave environmental solutions holistically into a new home and provide a tool that local associations can use to create their own green home building program. The Standard will employ a point system to evaluate and reduce environmental impacts of residential construction in several categories including: lot design, preparation, and development, resource efficiency, energy efficiency, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and global impact When completed, the Standard can be adopted by local green home building programs or local building departments as a conformance guide.

LOS ANGELES, May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- In a city with more opinions than traffic jams, it's tricky to find a neighbor with common values -- yet it's been discovered in one hip, environmentally friendly building at 5519 S. Centinela Avenue, where Sarah Barnard's self-named interior design studio shares a roof with landscape design + build firm, Environmental Concept. "It started with a call from Tania Gybels, the president of Environmental Concept," Barnard said. "She was familiar with my work and my commitment to the environment and wanted my thoughts on the interior of a building they'd just acquired." What began as a standard eco-friendly interior project, on an old pre- school building, became a new space to call home for Sarah Barnard Design, then a blossoming friendship and wonderful working relationship between interior and exterior specialists. Now her studio occupies twenty-five percent of the building while her neighbor uses the rest. "A great team is really important -- it's convenient and time saving for consumers who seek out firms like ours, because they can find like minded interior and exterior companies under one roof," Barnard said. "It's really been a great move for the both of us." The essential aim of sustainable design is to create places and spaces that reduce the use of non-renewable resources and minimize environmental impact. Rather than a fast, here-today-gone-tomorrow, left-coast trend -- green is here to stay. So when clients approach Sarah Barnard Design wanting eco-friendly interior design, the referral to Environmental Concept for a sustainable garden makes sense. Barnard, known by many as a design visionary, is also a well-versed, award-winning furniture designer who can create custom, eco-friendly furniture to enhance and compliment sustainable spaces.

Mortgage Brokerage Company Dedicated to Helping the Hispanic Community Overcome Homeownership Barriers LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Since 1974, the direct marketing giant Lexicon Marketing has been helping its Hispanic customers achieve the American dream through their pioneering English language learning product — Inglés sin Barreras. Today, it announced the launch of its new mortgage brokerage, Su Hogar sin Barreras Mortgages, Inc., to help Hispanics realize yet another significant part of that dream. Su Hogar sin Barreras is focused on breaking down the barriers of homeownership for the under-served and growing Hispanic community. Dedicated to serving the Hispanic population, the Su Hogar sin Barreras team of bilingual and trustworthy professionals is committed to finding their clients the most appropriate loan program for their particular economic situation under the most favorable terms. Drawing on the extensive experience of its parent company in educating customers about credit-based transactions, Su Hogar sin Barreras’ clients can expect sound financial advice on overcoming one of the biggest obstacles to homeownership: establishing a credit history. Su Hogar sin Barreras educates potential borrowers about the home buying process by providing them with easy-to-understand information in Spanish. Its service integrates practical education and first-rate financial services by teaching consumers the importance of establishing and maintaining a good credit history in order to qualify for a loan at the most favorable rate, explaining the risks and consequences of becoming overextended and non-payment, as well as many more valuable financial literacy skills. Customers will also enjoy face-to-face communication that personalizes their experience and ensures the security and privacy of their information. “This company was founded on the belief that by providing Hispanics with the right tools and education, they can succeed and achieve their dreams for a better future,” said Valeria Rico, President of Lexicon Marketing and Su Hogar sin Barreras. “We are pleased to be able to offer our market a trustworthy source of information and service for one of the most important decisions a Hispanic family will make.” To help realize their goals, Su Hogar sin Barreras is teaming up with lenders such as GrupoMac, a Hispanic wholesale division of IndyMac Bank, F.S.B. (Indymac Bank(R)), to provide affordable and relevant mortgage products. Indymac Bank, the second largest independent mortgage lender in the nation, provides cost-efficient financing for the acquisition, development and improvement of single-family homes, as well as other banking products to facilitate consumers' personal financial goals. GrupoMac will provide diverse loan products and comprehensive service to mortgage brokers and emerging bankers serving 31 million Spanish speaking U.S. residents. “This is a wonderful opportunity for Indymac Bank, our commitment to brokers and emerging bankers who serve Hispanic communities will be second to none, and we are dedicated to providing the right products and services to make their business a success,” said Mark Mozilo, chief executive officer of GrupoMac at Indymac Bank. Unlike many other mortgage businesses today, Su Hogar sin Barreras takes pride in building lasting relationships with their customers. Long after the loan is closed and the clients have moved into their new home, Su Hogar sin Barreras continues to support their lives with innovative products and services from Lexicon Marketing to meet their clients’ growing and changing needs.

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As the laminate flooring industry continues to expand, the need for quality metrics and recognition through credible certification for its products grows more critical. Ten years strong, the North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) has been a pioneer in the industry, setting and enforcing quality and performance standards for all laminate flooring. Today, NALFA is urging manufactures and retailers to adhere to these set industry standards in a joint effort to promote the highest quality products available. “We are very passionate about promoting standards for what laminate flooring is and what can reasonably be expected of its performance,” says Bill Dearing, president of NALFA. “Quality measures are important to aide both customers and retailers in distinguishing between the vast number of products.” NALFA is the source for manufacturers, consumers and retailers to get information about durable, affordable and environmentally-friendly laminate flooring and is comprised of 10 regular members (manufacturers) and 19 associate members (distributors). The main goal of the organization is to encourage the establishment and maintenance of high standards in laminate flooring in North America and to recognize those that meet them. This past year the organization took a critical stride towards improving quality control in the industry by encouraging its members to display the NALFA Certification Seal on product packaging to promote quality control in the industry and encouraging associate members to promote NALFA-certified products. A NALFA Certification Seal is given to manufacturers who pass the intense testing and examination of their product(s), assuring the consumer that the product conforms to NALFA quality standards. Staying true to their mission, NALFA feels recognition is needed for individuals and companies that make the greatest contributions to the responsible growth of the laminate flooring segment during each year. Thus, the LAMMY Awards were introduced. “For the past decade, NALFA members and associate members have made substantial contributions to the industry and their efforts have gone unnoticed,” explains Dearing. “Through the LAMMY Awards, NALFA can formally recognize these companies and individuals for their contributions and encourage them to continue their efforts and also encourage others to follow in their footsteps.” In 2000, NALFA created voluntary performance standards for the laminate flooring producers in the North American Market. In 2001, these standards were approved by the American National Standards Institute. Performance requirements for NALFA products include, but are not limited to: static load, thickness swell, impact resistance, light resistance, cleanability/stain resistance, wear resistance, dimensional tolerances and castor chair resistance. Formed in 1997, the North American Laminate Flooring Association is an organization of U.S. and Canadian manufacturers and importers of laminate flooring products.

Think Lowe's for Grills, Cool Tools and Outdoor Power Equipment Galore 1. For the father who insists on a quiet morning commute, the Whisper Drive by Chamberlain will give him a calm start to the workday. This garage door opener features a quiet belt-drive opener that continues to operate even when the power goes out. It also turns on the garage door lights when the Protector System(TM) beams are obstructed for added safety. 2. Who says toy boxes are for kids only? With the Kobalt(R) Deep Full-Size Single Lid Truck Box, he is guaranteed a secure place to store his toys-or tools-as well as a new accessory for his other toy-his truck. 3. Nothing says "clean cut" like a nice shape-up. Help him complete the yard maintenance with a Black & Decker (R) 18-Volt Cordless String Trimmer. A three-hour rechargeable battery system delivers more power and longer run time, and comfort grips provide greater ease of use. 4. If Dad is anxious to show off his burger-flipping skills this summer, help him fire things up with a Perfect Flame 4-Burner Split Lid Gas Grill. It features three stainless burners under the main lid and an energy-saving split lid with infrared burner that cooks food hotter and faster, while the split lid locks in heat. 5. A manicured lawn is sure to make neighbors green with envy. Give Dad the upper-hand with the John Deere 18.5-HP 42-Inch Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Radius Mower. This riding mower includes overhead valves for superior power, efficient fuel economy and adjustable motion controls.

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DRI Companies, the parent company of two of the premier roofing contractors in the Western US, today announced the launch of a new subsidiary to provide roof integrated solar energy installation services to commercial building owners and residential home builders. The new company, DRI Energy, will address each step of the solar installation process, from design and engineering to installation, finance, rebate administration support and system monitoring services. “DRI Companies’ extensive commercial and residential roofing experience puts us in a unique position to provide roof integrated solar solutions to the growing market for clean, renewable solar energy in California, while maintaining the functionality and integrity of the roof systems we install,” said company founder and CEO Timothy M. Davey. “With our broad customer reach and construction management track record in the West, we expect our roof integrated solar offerings to lead the industry, as more builders and building owners demand integrated solar and roofing construction services to address their renewable energy needs.” With annual revenues of US$96 million and six offices serving the Western US, DRI Companies, through its subsidiaries DRI Commercial and DRI Residential, serves residential builders such as Shea Homes, Brookfield Homes, Lennar and Centex and large commercial customers such as Target, Home Depot, Federated Department Stores, Walt Disney Company and the United States Navy. DRI’s management team brings over 140 years of combined residential and commercial roofing experience to the solar industry, and has overseen the installation of over a quarter of a million roofs in Nevada and California. DRI Energy Chief Operating Officer Stephen Torres, who previously directed Magnetek’s entry into the solar inverter market as the President of its Alternative Energy Division, says that DRI’s roof integrated solar offering positions the company at the forefront of the solar industry in the West. “For California’s ‘Million Solar Roofs’ campaign to succeed, it’s critical that solar integrators use sound construction management practices,” says Torres. “With DRI Energy, we’re creating one company that can provide a seamless roof integrated solar solution to all our commercial and residential customers in California and other western states.” DRI Energy will provide roof integrated solar products and services for both new residential and commercial construction projects as well as existing commercial buildings, with the ability to design and build systems for both steep and low slope roof applications.

Lighting is Selected for its Energy Efficiency, Ease of Maintenance and Aesthetic Value WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has installed LED Folio Corporation TiLux fixtures in its Foggy Bottom Station as part of a pilot project for lighting its metro stations. The project aims to take advantage of the long lifetimes of LEDs to reduce the cost of maintenance, which is presently $4.5M annually. Forty-eight of LED Folio Corporation’s first generation TiLux fixtures were installed to provide the platform lighting for the station. “LED Folio Corporation fixtures are the most environmentally friendly lighting solution available,” says LED Folio Corporation CEO Dr. Steven Kim. “You hear so much these days about CFLs and their positive impact on the environment when, in fact, our fixtures offer better application efficiencies, much longer life and have no disposal issues like the CFL. It is really the only truly Green Lighting available. We are very proud to be able to offer this to the WMATA and all of the riders.” “One of the reasons we were selected is, of course, our 70,000 hour lifetime,” says LED Folio Corporation COO Donald Peifer. “In continuous burning, you are talking about the difference between a one year lifetime for fluorescent and 10 years for our fixtures, and the ten years is maintenance free. The other reason is our unique form factor. We are not trying to reinvent the light bulb like other LED fixture manufacturers. Our method of extracting copious amounts of beautifully diffuse light from a thin fixture without glare is what is unique about our products.” LED Folio Corporation uses state of the art technology to create a low-profile, high-efficient and aesthetically-pleasing family of LED light fixtures. Strategic alliances with WooYoung and the use of their LCD technology along with a catalog of design patents helps to insure quality assurance and some of the lowest prices in the industry. Our goal is to offer general lighting that stresses the quality of light in a unique, maintenance free package — a market-shifting solution for today’s lighting needs.

LONDON, May 23/PRNewswire/ -- The Green Energy sector is growing at breathtaking speed, driven by the challenges of climate change, surely unprecedented in our time. Globally, it has already become a multi-billion dollar industry, with very high growth potential which is attracting record investment. Over the last few years, eco-industries in the European Union have grown to such an extent that they have now become a prominent force across the entire European economy. Today they represent about 2.1% of its Gross Domestic Product and account for 3.5 million jobs. Frost & Sullivan Green Energy experts are analyzing all the key segments of this market, both in Europe and globally. There is no doubt that this area is expanding at an extraordinary rate and - based on their research - Frost & Sullivan analysts forecast that revenues are set to double, triple or increase even more over the next few years. Biodiesel Biodiesel is surely one of the fastest-growing areas in the chemical industry and in the Green Energy sector. Last year in Europe we consumed 3.89 million tonnes of biodiesel, generating revenues of EUR2.93 billion. By 2013 the total EU biodiesel market is forecast to be 9.75 million tonnes in terms of unit shipments while revenues are forecast to be EUR7.46 billion, based on current biodiesel market prices. The average growth over the forecast period will be 14 percent. Renewable Energy New analysis from Frost & Sullivan European Renewable Energy Market - Investment Analysis and Growth Opportunities reveals that this market earned EUR8.89 billion in 2005 and estimates this to reach EUR14.54 billion in 2010. Even in China, the Government feels there is an urgent need to take action and is stepping up efforts to accelerate the development of clean energy. Frost & Sullivan research analysts reveal that the Chinese Renewable Energy Markets earned revenues of $6.9 billion in 2006, and that these are likely to reach $17.9 billion by 2013. Amongst the market segments, solar PV will be one of the fastest growing renewable energy sources in China until 2013, with its growth exceeding even that of wind power. The biomass power industry has great revenue potential, not only because of sufficient Government funding but also due to the adequate availability of feedstock fuels. Green Buildings Buildings are responsible for 40% of Europe's total carbon-dioxide emissions. Climate Change is the EU's top priority according to the European Commission and Member States are committed to cutting down on CO2 emissions to meet the Kyoto Protocol targets. Despite all their efforts, Member States keep on wasting a significant proportion of their energy due to inefficiency. Therefore, if the EU is to achieve its targets, reducing energy use in all buildings is essential. According to Frost & Sullivan, if more stringent standards are applied to new buildings and renovations, the EU will achieve a significant cut in greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately, any efforts will be in vain if they are not accompanied by a change in consumer behavior. Hybrid vehicles Reducing emissions below 140 g/km of CO2 will be possible mainly with the help of alternative fuels and hybrids (micro, mild and full). While original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are aware of this fact, further development or market acceptance of these alternative fuels and hybrids is restrained by the distribution network, availability and high implementation costs. According to Frost & Sullivan analysis of the Alternative Fuels and Hybrid Technologies, while advancements in engine technology have helped reduce emissions to an average of 160 g/km, hybrids, ethanol, biofuels, compressed natural gas (CNG), hydrogen and fuel cells are necessary to reduce them further. The main priority of OEMs today is to reduce emissions, which will require the help of local governments and fuel suppliers to promote alternative fuels and hybrids in a cost-effective manner. Waste Management and Recycling An estimated 1.3 billion tonnes of waste is generated annually in the EU and this still continues to rise. The overall volume of waste is growing at rates proportional to the economic growth rate of the EU25. Amongst the various streams of waste generated, management of hazardous and municipal waste alone costs the EU an estimated EUR75 billion annually. This translates to the waste management and recycling industry earning huge revenues that are expected to increase enormously over the next few years. Frost & Sullivan finds that the European Waste Management and Recycling market earns total annual revenues of EUR100 billion. As we have seen, the market is growing and investments are accelerating dramatically. To face this new challenge Frost & Sullivan is combining its expertise across four Business Units - Energy, Environment, Chemicals and Automotive - to offer the broadest and fullest coverage of the Green Energy Sector. "It is clear that this is a period of truly booming growth in the Green Energy sector and this is an issue that is here to stay," says John Raspin, Frost & Sullivan Energy & Environment Practice Director. "We are seeing double-digit growth in many segments of the market and companies of all shapes and sizes are positioning themselves to exploit the growth opportunities. Frost & Sullivan is uniquely positioned to have analyst teams working across the entire breadth of the Green Energy sector and we are extremely excited to be launching this new offering that pulls all of that expertise together into a single strategic platform."

Comprehensive Educational and Trade Event Focuses on Integrating the Principles of Sustainability into Project Design NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Nielsen Company today announced the launch of the Green + Design Conference and Expo, a new conference and trade show focused on environmental design in the commercial, hospitality, residential and retail design industries. The inaugural Green + Design Conference and Expo, to be held October 1-2, 2007 in Atlanta, will be the design industry’s most comprehensive educational and trade event focusing on integrating the principles of sustainability into project designs. The event, produced by Nielsen Business Media, was launched based on the company’s experience in a broad range of design markets and understanding of the industry’s appetite for green-focused products and seminars. The design markets from Nielsen’s existing events and publications have been combined to create one show that fills the need for green design. With the demand for incorporating eco-friendly elements into design exploding, Green + Design Conference and Expo will provide designers, architects and project managers information on the products, services and methods that will help them implement these concepts. “Green + Design Conference and Expo is about combining green principles with utility, economy, and practicality, and helping our audience integrate the principles of sustainability into project designs,” said Tim Fearney, Show Director, Nielsen Business Media. “We have an enduring relationship with our audience and this is a strong example of providing them with information and tools to increase their success. It addresses a void in the market place and fills the need for idea and information exchange and education related to environmentally friendly design.” The Green + Design Conference and Expo event combines elements of design across several market segments. The program will be produced by the editorial staff of Nielsen Business Media’s leading industry publications Contract magazine, Hospitality Design magazine, Kitchen & Bath Business (K+BB), DDI Magazine, Multi-Housing News and Commercial Property News. Featured tracks include Commercial Green Design, Hospitality Green Design, Residential Green Design and Retail Green Design. In addition, other areas will include business oriented discussions, case studies, best practices and regulations. The Green + Design exposition floor will feature over 15,000 square feet of exhibit space dedicated to green products used in sustainability design. Attendees will learn about environmentally aware design methods and have access to the products and services that will help them achieve their objectives.

Redmond company recognized by local Chamber of Commerce REDMOND, Wash., May 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Legacy Roofing, a Redmond, Wash.-based roofing installation company, is proud to announce its selection as one of three finalists for the Eastside Business of the Year award. The Bellevue Chamber of Commerce recognized Legacy and two other finalists at its annual Eastside Business Awards luncheon held this past Tuesday. The Eastside Business of the Year award recognizes the superior performance of an Eastside business by examining its three-year history of revenue growth, the strength of its leadership team, and its history of recognizing and seizing market opportunities. Each year the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce receives up to 200 applications for awards in six categories, and a panel of regional business leaders selects the top performing companies from each category. Legacy Roofing received the Emerging Business Award in 2006. Owner Cliff Hurn credits Legacy's success to its companywide commitment to a Gold Standard(TM) for quality and service. "All Legacy employees operate by the standard from the first sales call through final inspection, and undergo continuous training on the latest roofing techniques and products," Hurn says. "As a result, sales have skyrocketed from $6.3 million in 2001 to more than $24 million in 2006." The company began as a contractor serving new construction builders in 1988 and expanded in 1992 to include residential roof removal and replacement. The company also added a home improvement division in the 1990s that became an independent company in 2004, and now does remodeling, windows, siding and decks. Legacy Gutter Services, launched in November 2005, is the latest addition to the Legacy Roofing family of companies. This honor is the latest in a string of recent recognitions and awards for Legacy. The Puget Sound Business Journal recognized Legacy as one of the state's 100 fastest growing private companies in 2005 and 2006. Replacement Contractor, a national trade magazine, featured the company's pioneering marketing and business success in a February 2006 feature profile. Legacy also earned a 2005 Master Builders Remodeling Excellence (REX) Award for restoration work on a historic, 100-year-old home in Bellevue, Wash.

MONTEREY PARK, Calif., May 21 /PRNewswire/ -- First California Equity Group, LLC, recently announced their plans to redevelop the property located at 220 North Atlantic Boulevard, Monterey Park, the former site of the Sunday Cafe restaurant. The project was approved on May 8, 2007 by the City of Monterey Park Planning Committee. The $40 million, 54-unit mixed-use condominium and retail complex will serve as a catalyst to revitalize the underutilized North Atlantic Corridor by introducing visually stunning architecture, a pedestrian-friendly environment, and enhanced community and commerce to the city. The project will seek to become Monterey Park's first environmentally sustainable site development by adhering to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design building and operation standards. LEED certification requires that builders adhere to a whole-building approach to sustainability through water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and attention to indoor environmental quality. Thoughtfully designed with Monterey Park's residents in mind, the project has been planned to encourage community. The site will incorporate a coffee shop and an upscale, 400-seat California fusion restaurant with space that may be rented by the public for private functions such as weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events. Nearly 20,000 square feet of landscaped, park- like open space will be available for public gathering, art and music performances. This space will also incorporate tasteful art and water-feature sculpture for the public's enjoyment. In order to minimize visual clutter and land waste, all parking at the site will be underground. Guests to the complex will experience maximum convenience with first-class valet parking service. "The Springfield project represents a new standard of luxury living for both residents of Monterey Park and future owners of the condominiums. The project will exceed the design standards set forth in the City of Monterey Park's General Plan, which was created in 2001 to create a vision for the downtown area. In addition, it will provide residents of Monterey Park with increased public space, high-paying jobs in the project's management office, restaurant and shops, and tax revenue from on-site commerce. We are proud of the leadership role we are taking in creating the future of this great community and grateful to the city's leaders for their counsel in the creation of this project," states Jason Chung, Owner and Developer, First California Equity Group, LLC.

CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Green Builder® Media, the leading national purveyor of information and education about residential green building and sustainable development, announces its new corporate mission: “Defining Green™.” In this process of Defining Green, Green Builder Media will set parameters around the concept of green building, helping to dispel the many myths and vast amount of confusion that exist in the marketplace today. Over the past two years, Green Builder Media has encouraged building professionals and manufacturers to focus on the fact that their decisions inevitably impact the environment. The company has urged professionals and advertisers to ask themselves penetrating questions about energy efficiency and renewables, water management, indoor environment quality, waste reduction, and other essential factors that contribute to the larger subject of green building. “We have found that our readers and advertisers want us to take a bolder, more authoritative leadership position within the green space and to actually define what green means,” says Sara Gutterman, CEO of Green Builder Media. “We are gladly stepping up to meet this request. We will weave the concept of Defining Green into all of our editorial content, product offerings, and daily business decisions.” According to Green Builder Media, the term “green building” incorporates design, construction, and development that aspire to be regenerative, restoring and replenishing the natural system in which it is located and improving the quality of life for inhabitants. To manifest the company’s commitment of Defining Green, Green Builder Media is redesigning and re-launching its flagship publication, Green Builder magazine. “Green building is the present and the future,” says Editor-in-Chief Cati O’Keefe. “Therefore, the new design and content of Green Builder magazine will be more progressive and inspirational than ever before.” Green Builder Media has hired Matt Power and Alison Rice, two award-winning editors, to bolster its Defining Green campaign and the re-launch of Green Builder magazine. Power, senior editor, is one of the residential construction industry’s most accomplished and respected editors and a long-time proponent of green building. He has received some of the industry’s highest honors, including the Jesse H. Neal award, the Ned Godrey award from the Construction Writers Association, and repeated recognition from the American Society of Business Press Editors. Rice, managing editor, has covered the housing industry since 2000 as both an editor and writer. Most recently, she served as editor of Multifamily Executive magazine (a Hanley Wood publication, owned by JP Morgan Chase & Co, NYSE: JPM). Rice is a two-time Jesse H. Neal award finalist and has garnered several national and regional awards from the American Society of Business Press Editors. “We are thrilled to welcome two of the best editors in the construction industry to the Green Builder Media team. With Matt’s vast knowledge of the green building space and Alison’s strong business reporting experience, we have an editorial team that solidifies Green Builder Media’s position as the authority on residential green building,” says Gutterman. “We now have the components in place that enable us to successfully define green, including the range of products and services, the experienced team, the industry background and extensive network, the market research capabilities, and, most importantly, the understanding of the nuances of the green building market.” Green Builder Media asserts that their quest to define green is not exclusive. The company welcomes collaboration on this effort and openly invites manufacturers, building organizations, and other sustainability-related groups to be involved in the process. “We know that there is not just one shade of green,” says Brian Strombotne, COO of Green Builder Media. “Therefore, we are assembling a team of industry leaders who all bring diverse experience and valuable input. The success of the green building movement will not be determined by one company alone, it is dependent on the participation of the entire industry.”

Johnson Controls Energy Efficiency Indicator sets benchmark for changing landscape MILWAUKEE, May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Results from a first-time survey of North American business leaders indicate they expect energy prices to continue to rise, and plan to invest in energy efficiency measures to help fight rising costs. Despite the trend toward sustainability, executives cite a desire to decrease energy expenditures within their organizations as a greater motivator than environmental responsibility. Those are some of the findings of the research commissioned by Johnson Controls, Inc., a global leader in creating smart environments. The Johnson Controls Energy Efficiency Indicator research identified individuals from a wide range of facilities and locations who were decision-makers for energy management issues within organizations and asked how they were responding to rising energy costs, defined as electricity and natural gas costs. Members from the International Facility Management Association were included as survey respondents. The research was conducted in March and released today. Johnson Controls plans to repeat the Energy Efficiency Indicator research annually. Just over half -- 52 percent -- of the executives surveyed say costs savings as either entirely or somewhat the driver for their decision to invest in energy efficiency measures. Thirty-five percent say cost savings and environmental responsibility are equal motivators, while only 13 percent cite environmental concern as the greater motivator. The executives appear to have reached a consensus that energy costs will continue to rise in the near future. Seventy-nine percent say they believe that electricity and natural gas prices will increase significantly during the next 12 months, with an average price hike of 13.25 percent expected. Consistent with the rising energy cost forecast, 62 percent say their companies are paying more attention to energy efficiency today than five years ago. As a result, they are acting on it. Almost 57 percent expect to make energy efficiency improvements using their capital budgets in the next 12 months, spending an average of 8 percent of those budgets. In addition, 64 percent anticipate using their operating budgets, allocating 6 percent to energy efficiency improvements.

Survey Conducted for Turner Construction Company NEW YORK, May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- McGraw-Hill Construction, part of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE:MHP) , in conjunction with Turner Construction Company, U.S. Green Building Council and Johns Manville, today released core findings of its study on green building in the healthcare construction sector. The major findings in the study included: - Green healthcare facilities reduce energy use, thus reducing green house gases and improving air quality - 47% of respondents said that patient recovery time is reduced in green buildings - Other benefits include lower operating costs, greater innovation and public relations benefits The survey clearly shows that there is an increasing trend toward building green healthcare facilities. Of the survey respondents, 19% said they expect that their organization will be significantly involved with green building in 2008 -- more than triple the level for 2007. "The numbers are encouraging," explains Harvey M. Bernstein, McGraw-Hill Construction vice president of Industry Analytics, Alliances and Strategic Initiatives. "Despite the obstacles, 60% of respondents see green building as transforming the healthcare construction sector, and by next year, a fifth of the survey respondents expect that they will be highly dedicated (more than 30% of their projects) to building green healthcare facilities." Turner Construction Company, co-sponsor of the research and the nation's leading green builder, is encouraged by the survey respondents' acceptance of the benefits of green. "We're seeing a growing consensus that green building brings improvements. Green buildings reduce the amount of energy used and thus reduce the impact buildings have on the environment. In fact, over two-thirds acknowledge energy use is reduced by over 10%," states Michael Deane, operations manager, Sustainable Construction, Turner Construction Company at Turner. "With the high level of energy use in healthcare facilities, a reduction in energy use can have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite a perception of a high cost of building green, Turner's experience has found that on average the true incremental costs for green building healthcare facilities are less than 1%." Also, the study found that benefits to patient health and recovery times are an essential part of a healthcare facility's decision to go green. "It's clear that the perceived additional cost premium obstacle will be eroded by the overwhelming benefits of green," says Bernstein. "When 91% of a sample tell you patient well-being is an important reason to build green, 58% tell you it's the most important reason, and 47% say that patients recover faster in green buildings, it is clear that improved well-being is an important finding that the market cannot afford to ignore if we are going to accelerate green building in this sector." These research finding and others from the landmark study will be incorporated into the Healthcare Green Building SmartMarket Report, the latest edition of MHC's SmartMarket Report(TM) series, to be released over the next month. Sponsored by Johns Manville, that report will review the data and provide context behind it. "We thought this data was very compelling," states James Pickren, director of Commercial Marketing, Building Products Group, for Johns Manville. "It sends the important message that we at Johns Manville have been focusing on -- that the performance of our buildings and the products that go in them are critical to the well-being of the building occupants, and this is especially important in healthcare facilities."

Results Show Environmental Design Not Relevant to One-Third of Real Estate Professionals NEW YORK, May 16 /PRNewswire/ -- More than one-third of real estate professionals said that "green construction" would not be in their real estate development plans in the next 12 - 18 months, according to the fourth annual Bryan Cave Real Estate Executives' Forecast Survey. The study, released today, surveyed real estate executives from across the country. "The fact that the survey reveals such a substantial level of reluctance to embrace green construction is surprising," said Barry Ross, a partner in Bryan Cave's Real Estate Group. "Previously viewed as prohibitively expensive by the real estate community, green construction is not universally gaining ground because the true cost-effectiveness of green construction is still a matter of debate." In addition, the research demonstrated that the Southwest continues to be a dominant region for development, with 21 percent of respondents planning to invest in that area of the country. The investment interest in the Southwest is particularly striking given that only one percent of survey respondents are based in the Southwest. The survey also found that when asked about the region in the United States they would invest, 33 percent said the Northeast, 16 percent mentioned the Pacific Coast and 10 percent named the Southeast. Real estate respondents were particularly interested in investing in metropolitan office buildings (21 percent) and metropolitan and suburban multi-family, high-rise residential buildings (23 percent). On the foreign investment front, 55 percent of real estate executives are likely to invest in land outside the United States within the next 12 months. Thirty-eight percent are highly likely and 17 percent are somewhat likely to invest abroad, despite threats of terrorism and continuing military conflict in certain parts of the world. Respondents expressed the greatest interest in investing in one of three countries: Canada (eight percent), England (eight percent) and Mexico (eight percent).

Playground Pioneers Complete the 50th Playground Build in the Gulf Coast WASHINGTON, May 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On May 21, the students at Drew Elementary School in New Orleans will no longer have to call the broken asphalt behind the school their playground. Instead, they will be able to swing, jump and slide on a brightly colored, state-of-the-art custom playground built in just one day by more than 300 volunteers. The new playground is the 50th built in the Gulf Coast by the nonprofit organization KaBOOM! as part of its Operation Playground initiative to build 100 playgrounds in communities affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. "KaBOOM! is committed to bringing play back to the Gulf Coast, one playground at a time. Every child deserves a place to run, jump, have fun and just be a kid. We are proud to reach this important milestone and we couldn't have done it without incredible support from our partners. There is so much more work to do, though, to ensure there is a great place to play within walking distance of every child in the Gulf Coast," said KaBOOM! CEO and co- founder Darell Hammond. Since launching Operation Playground in December 2005, KaBOOM! has raised $3.7M to build 50 playspaces in Gulf Coast communities, providing more than 17,500 Gulf Coast children with great places to play. To date, Operation Playground has mobilized over 25,000 volunteers from across the country. The first 50 Operation Playground projects have included the building of 10 playgrounds in four days with partners The Home Depot and Playworld Systems Inc. during the Hurricane Katrina Anniversary. This February, KaBOOM! partnered with Fannie Mae to build six playgrounds in one day at elementary schools across New Orleans. Other partners contributing assets for three or more playgrounds in the Gulf Coast include Jim Barksdale, ING DIRECT and AmeriCares. Each KaBOOM! playground is designed by the children who will use it, planned by local residents and built entirely by volunteers. The playground at Drew Elementary School is being built at the behest of the popular daytime television show Live with Regis and Kelly, which initiated the project in conjunction with the show's visit to the area. Planning for the project began in March when students, parents and school staff met with organizers from KaBOOM! and representatives from the show to design their dream playground. Since then, a planning committee made up of teachers, parents and representatives from KaBOOM! and Live with Regis and Kelly have met weekly to plan the playground build as well as volunteer recruitment, site preparation and safety/logistics. The hard work will pay off on May 21 and for years to come as Drew Elementary students enjoy their new playground. "We thank KaBOOM! for its initiative in rebuilding local playgrounds in New Orleans and across the Gulf Coast. KaBOOM! is helping to strengthen our New Orleans Recreation Department one playground at a time," said Mayor C. Ray Nagin. "Supporting the positive development of our youth is critical to our city's recovery."

May 15, 2007 08:00 ET RSS PBS to Air New Weekly Television Series Dedicated to 'Building Green' 'Building Green,' a first of its kind, 13-episode series about eco-friendly building techniques and alternatives, helps homeowners discover just how easy, cost-effective and healthy it can be to go green. SAN FRANCISCO, May 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Building Green TV announced today that its new weekly television series about creating beautiful homes and buildings in harmony with the environment is set to air on PBS affiliate stations across the country starting June 5, 2007. The show takes an entertaining and informative look at ways to "green" homes and buildings using earth-friendly techniques and materials that are better for people, as well as the planet. From blue jean insulation to bamboo flooring, Kevin Contreras, host and creator of "Building Green," introduces viewers to every aspect of green building using the design and construction of his own green Santa Barbara dream home as a living workshop. Each week, viewers follow the progress of Kevin's home through signature segments like "Inside the Design," "Saving Green," "The Green Extreme," "Building Health," "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle," and "Easy Steps." They learn, step-by-step, about a range of topics and discover the best choices and green home products available on the market. "Many people don't realize that buildings cause more c02 emissions than cars," comments Contreras. "In fact, buildings and their construction account for nearly half of all greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumed in this country each year. By providing people access to information about how they can build greener, I believe we can better sustain our planet -- one home at a time." According to Roper's Green Gauge Report, 50% of American adults say they would do more for the environment if only they knew how. "My goal is to show viewers just how easy it is to live green," continued Contreras. "It's also essential for people to see that an environmentally conscious lifestyle does not mean doing without."

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., May 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Organizations are increasingly turning to the Cradle to Cradle(SM) eco-label from MBDC as a way to identify products as legitimately 'green' for third party review from a respected source. On May 1, 2007, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced Cradle to Cradle(SM) Certification as an approved tool to help architects and designers select building and interior products for their human health, environmental and life cycle attributes. Cradle to Cradle Certification is now included within USGBC's LEED(R) Green Building Rating System(TM) and eligible for earning "Innovation in Design" points Tom Hicks, Vice President of LEED, said that Cradle to Cradle Certification "is in harmony with our guiding principle of reconciling human activities with nature, and cuts a trail for exciting new directions in LEED to address the impacts of materials in the building industry in a much more sophisticated scientific manner." William McDonough, Co-founder of MBDC, remarked, "We are delighted and honored the USGBC now recognizes MBDC's Cradle to Cradle Certification program for LEED innovation credits. This helps expand the environmental focus to what's being used, reused or recycled and not just on the amount of recycled content." http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.mbdc.com/ http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.c2ccertified.com/

ST. LOUIS, May 15 /PRNewswire/ -- As global warming continues to dominate headlines, many eco-conscious consumers are looking for ways to make a difference. Whether it's driving hybrid cars, or installing compact fluorescent light bulbs, many consumers are choosing products that have less of an environmental impact on our world. When it comes to flooring options, wood floors offer the most ecologically sound alternative. Think about it ... wood is produced in a factory called a forest by a renewable source of energy called the sun. In the past, many environmentalists charged that harvesting trees destroyed wildlife habitats, and displayed images of clear cutting to prove it. The truth is that there are more trees in existence today than there were in the 1950s -- 98% more between 1953 and 2002, according to the USDA Forest Service. What's even more impactful is that for every tree harvested in the US, 10 more are planted in its place, and while it may take 40-50 years for those new trees to mature, the wood won't be needed for another 50 years. How is that so? A study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) ranked how long things last in homes. Wood floors were rated at 100+ years, so the trees planted today will mature by 2057, but won't be needed until 2107. And during that time, they contribute oxygen to the atmosphere while consuming carbon dioxide. Need more convincing that wood is eco-friendly? Wood flooring is recognized as an environmentally friendly, renewable and sustainable resource by such organizations as the US Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, and the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines.

STODDARD, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carlisle Wide Plank Floors has been presented a chain-of-custody certification by the international Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for its entire line of 100% Post-Consumer Reclaimed Antique Wood. The certification was awarded by Smartwood, a third party organization authorized by the FSC to recognize green building products. Don Carlisle, President of Carlisle Wide Plank Floors, announced today that the extensive documentation and auditing to ensure responsible supply chain management and manufacturing practices was finalized. The company’s antique wood packaging and marketing materials can now bear the official FSC logo ensuring that the antique wood is processed through a continuous Carlisle chain-of-custody, from original structure to customer, and that the Carlisle product contains 100% FSC certified wood. Carlisle’s FSC certified 100% Post-Consumer Reclaimed Antique Wood comes from structures that have been slated for demolition. The structures, many of which are hundreds of years old, are dismantled board by board and then handcrafted to live a second life as a floor. “By reusing materials, we highlight the natural beauty of aged wood and lessen the demand on natural resources,” says Carlisle. “Whether it is our Antique Chestnut, which played a significant role in early Americana, or our Antique Barnwood, which is typically a mix of Pine and Hemlock, we recognize the natural beauty and stewardship required to sustain their limited supply.” Every aspect of business at Carlisle Wide Plank Floors is based on their founding principles of sustainability and stewardship. “With the ever-increasing strain on our natural resources, we recognize our accountability to not only provide our customers with timeless and durable products, but also to be accountable for our business practices. We are proud to receive this certification for the same GREEN methods that we have used since my parents started the business four decades ago and look forward to obtaining FSC certification of our other types of wood in the near future.” For over 40 years, Carlisle has hand selected and milled traditional wide plank flooring to create unique environments and lifestyles for its customers. Carlisle operates Design Centers in Stoddard, NH, Denver, CO, Atlanta, GA, and a fourth location will open later this year in Los Angeles, CA. In addition to working with home owners, architects, designers and builder on personal residences, Carlisle’s wide plank floors are also featured in upscale commercial settings including the Mercer Hotel in New York City, The St Regis (Aspen) and most recently The Park Hyatt in Washington DC.

MIAMI, May 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern Bleacher Company, based in Graham, Texas, is pleased to announce that, in conjunction with lead contractor Odebrecht of Coral Gables, Florida, Southern Bleacher will provide seating for Florida International University's vast stadium expansion. "This will be the crown jewel of FIU's athletic department," Athletic Director Pete Garcia said. "The stadium will be the vehicle that will take the athletic department to the next level." *(PHOTO: Send2Press/mediaroom/07-0511-SoBleachFla_72dpi.jpg) *(Photo Caption: Stadium Rendering.) An integral player in the construction contract, Southern Bleacher will initially install 14,000 chairback seats and bench seating to expand seating capacity to 18,583 for phase two. Additional phases will expand seating to 43,057. When completed in 2008, the new stadium will be the only Division I on-campus football stadium south of Orlando in Florida. "We look forward to building an excellent facility; one that will enhance the campus environment and contribute measurably to FIU athletics, student life and the broader community," said Gilberto Neves, CEO of Odebrecht Construction, Inc. Garrett Pettus of Southern Bleacher added, "The FIU project represents a significant achievement for both our company as well as the university, its fans and perspective student athletes looking to build a championship program." Since 1946, Southern Bleacher has set the standard of excellence in design and manufacturing of sports stadiums and entertainment venues; they are the nation's largest stadium manufacturer. The FIU contract announcement follows May 9, 2007 rave reviews Southern Bleacher received for their newly-unveiled Richmond International Raceway TORQUE Club (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.catchfence.com/press/050907g.html). Southern Bleacher's comprehensive services include budget analysis, estimates, proposal drawings and specifications at no cost. Clients will benefit from their vast experience in addressing the myriad of building-code requirements, accessibility issues, safety requirements and lines of sight that fans will cheer about. Southern Bleacher's products grace soccer fields, college campuses, school districts, NASCAR tracks and rodeo arenas across the U.S. From concept to reality, Southern Bleacher is customer driven works closely with planning committees and project architects to create facilities that are timeless and cost effective. "We have made our mark in the industry by constantly finding new ways of addressing facility designs and seating systems required," Pettus said. "Solving our customers' needs, while providing superior and innovative products, has always been a top priority."

Innovative Lighting for Interior and Exterior of Store Will Unite Energy-Efficiency with Aesthetic Beauty and Function NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LED Folio Corporation, a maker of cutting-edge, energy-efficient solid state lighting fixtures, has contracted with Gucci for the illumination of their pilot store in midtown Manhattan. “Gucci’s use of these fixtures marks an important milestone,” said Dr. Steven Kim, Chief Executive Officer of LED Folio Corporation, “both for our product and LED lighting in general. By offering affordable, energy efficient and beautiful lighting products, we are broadening the potential applications for LEDs to include residential and commercial lighting. With today’s increased focus on the environment, LED Folio is thrilled to be able to provide an immediately viable and aesthetically pleasing lighting alternative for Gucci and our other clients.” Over 1,500 feet of LED Folio’s LinearLux fixtures will be placed along the façade of the Gucci store and entrance to the famed Trump Tower on 5th Avenue between 57th and 58th streets and will provide energy-efficient illumination for the exterior and interior of the store. Construction is already underway and is slated for completion in the Fall. “The LinearLux is durable, efficient, and dimmable. It provides a beautiful, soft light,” says Chief Operating Officer, Donald Peifer. “What is most remarkable about our product is the profile. All of our standard fixtures are less than 1/2” thick. In the case of an office building, this means that ceiling heights can be reduced and building materials conserved. The potential impact of an energy efficient, low-profile fixture like this on the built environment is enormous.” LED Folio Corporation uses state of the art technology to create a low-profile, highly-efficient and aesthetically-pleasing family of light fixtures. Strategic alliances with WooYoung and the use of their LCD technology along with a catalog of design patents helps to insure quality assurance and some of the lowest prices in the industry. Our goal is to offer general lighting that stresses the quality of light in a unique, maintenance free package—a market shifting solution to today’s lighting world.

INDIANAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The ever-expanding “green” movement made headlines with the recent release of “An Inconvenient Truth,” former Vice President Al Gore’s award-winning documentary on global warming. Scores of environmentally responsible products are now being offered — hybrid vehicles, energy-efficient light bulbs, termite control … termite control? That’s right, now even termite control can leave a smaller footprint on the environment. Right now in many parts of the United States, subterranean termites are “swarming,” leaving their colonies to form new ones. To treat their subterranean termite infestations, some homeowners have liquid chemicals added to the soil around and beneath their home. While treated soil provides termite protection for a finite amount of time, research shows that when homeowners consider termite treatment options, they indicate a high level of concern about the use of chemicals in and around their homes and the environmental implications. In part to encourage and recognize development of pesticides with lower environmental impact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created the Reduced Risk Pesticide Initiative, a program that expedites the review and regulatory decision-making process of pesticides that pose fewer risks to human health and the environment than existing conventional alternatives. Termite Control “Goes Green” Homeowners are now “going green” by selecting an alternative to liquid chemical treatments — the Sentricon® Termite Colony Elimination System, the first termite baiting technology that was made available to homeowners. The premier bait used in the Sentricon System was the first termite treatment active ingredient accepted for registration by the EPA’s Reduced Risk Pesticide Initiative. The Sentricon System also is the only termite control product ever to receive the Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award, one of the U.S. government’s top environmental honors. The award, presented by the EPA on behalf of the President, recognizes technical innovation that incorporates the principles of green chemistry into design, manufacture and use. “The Sentricon System is environmentally responsible because it uses just grams of termite bait, when and where needed, to eliminate termite colonies,” says Dave Maurer, marketing specialist for the Sentricon® System. “Every home treated with the Sentricon System instead of a liquid chemical treatment helps reduce the impact of pesticides on the environment. The Sentricon System also provides better control than liquid chemical treatments because it is monitored on an ongoing basis by an Authorized Operator and it eliminates termite colonies, not just individual termites.” Many homeowners agree. Dow AgroSciences conducted research in 11 high-termite-pressure markets across the country, and discovered that most homeowners feel that the environmentally responsible attributes of the Sentricon System are preferred over those of the leading liquid termiticide.

SLIDELL, La., May 10 /PRNewswire/ -- When Ted and Leanne Modica lost their Lake Pontchartrain home in Slidell, La. to Hurricane Katrina, they were determined to find an alternative that would allow them to return home and rebuild. Ted recalls the day they evacuated, one he and his wife will never forget. "I had a feeling we would lose our house. Two days later, we returned to a concrete slab," he said. A quick Internet search for "hurricane-proof homes" led to Deltec Homes based in Asheville, N.C., specializing in hurricane-resistant circular homes. Deltec's claim to have never lost a home to high winds was intriguing. According to nationally syndicated newspaper columnist and home building expert Jim Dulley, circular homes can be a good choice for construction in high wind areas. "Although these houses look round, most are made of many flat wall panels that give the circular appearance. With its aerodynamic structure, a circular home can withstand high winds better than a more conventional design," said Dulley. The next step for the Modicas was a tour of sites along the Gulf Coast where many Deltec homes had survived Katrina. "In Pass Christian, Miss. we saw a 'round' house still standing with only a few shingles missing. In the midst of all the destruction, we knew for sure that this was the way to go," said Ted. "We have seen a significant increase in interest from the Gulf region since Hurricane Katrina," says Joseph Schlenk, Director of Sales and Marketing for Deltec Homes. "People are looking for alternative types of construction that can perform well in these environmentally challenging areas. Traditional construction is not always the best choice for hurricane prone areas," said Schlenk. Last November, Ted and Leanne celebrated their first Thanksgiving in their new home. "We love this house. We wake up every morning grateful to be back home," said Leanne. Though hurricane resistance was the top priority, Ted and Leanne appreciate all aspects of their circular home's functionality combined with aesthetic appeal. "Our home is both practical and beautiful. We love the glass, the decks, the view of the lake, the fireplace - and it's incredibly energy efficient," said Leanne. The first of its kind in the area, the Modicas' home has drawn lots of attention. "We're the talk of the town," says Ted. "People often stop to take pictures of the house." Though many of their neighbors have moved away, Ted and Leanne are optimistic about the future of their community and hope to inspire others to rebuild. When asked about the upcoming hurricane season, Ted and Leanne say they're not worried. "We feel very safe. This is home. We're here to stay," said Ted.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The $41 billion healthcare construction industry is going green as it anticipates growing 11 percent in 2007, according to a Health Technology Center (HealthTech) study. HealthTech reports that sustainability principles are lowering energy costs, creating environments less prone to the spread of infection, and reducing the carbon footprint of health facilities. U.S. hospitals are discovering that sustainable design practices not only reduce energy costs, but lower infection rates, according to the study. Technologies – such as motion sensors for lights, faucets, and doorways – reduce the transmission of infections as well as lowering the $5.3 billion spent annually on energy. “The high cost of energy and operations, coupled with increasing environmental consciousness, has elevated the importance of green design for healthcare facilities,” said Molly J. Coye, MD, CEO of HealthTech. “Green technology investment has become cost-effective and pays for itself within a few years.” Principles that reduce hospital acquired infection rates and manage the prevalence of multi-drug resistant organisms is another critical trend in healthcare facility design. Wireless communications, RFID tracking, anti-microbial surfaces, negative pressure isolation rooms, single patient rooms, and emergency department entrance alternatives are used to reduce infections, which claim up to 100,000 lives every year. Another trend is the use of evidence-based design to assure that facilities support clinical efficiency, patient safety, and deployment of emerging information and clinical technologies.

NEW YORK, May 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Solar One Green Energy, Arts and Education Center will be honoring two green building pioneers, the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) and Turner Construction Company at its annual Revelry By The River gala on the East River waterfront on Wednesday, May 9, beginning at 6:00 pm. The event will celebrate green buildings in New York City, including "Solar 2," Solar One's own net-zero, carbon-neutral building, powered by solar power, to be completed in 2008. Mayor Bloomberg, as part of his PlaNYC initiative, has allocated $3 million from the City's budget for this project. Christopher Collins, Executive Director of Solar One, said, "With more and more attention being given to matters of energy, consumption, global warming and sustainability, we thought that it was time to recognize two of the true pioneers in the field of Green Building -- those whose efforts are creating solutions for our energy problems and are making New York City a more sustainable place to live, learn and work." Revelry By The River: A Celebration of Green Buildings in New York will take place a week before Mayor Bloomberg's Climate Summit. In his announcement of the Summit, the Mayor noted that buildings account for 79% of New York City's carbon emissions. High performance buildings offer a significant opportunity to reduce New York's energy use through green building practices of intelligent design, efficient systems and onsite, distributed generation. The USGBC catalyzed the green building movement with the creation of their Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program in 2000. Under the LEED system, the USGBC has registered over 5,300 projects and certified another 734, for a total of 829 million square feet of commercial building space. With LEED projects in all 50 states and 12 countries, the USGBC is leading the way in promoting, "buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work." To date, Turner Construction Company has completed or has under construction more than 200 green projects totaling over 51 million square feet and valued at over $12 billion. Turner has 260 LEED Accredited Professionals on staff. "Turner is proud to receive this honor from Solar One for our efforts and long-standing nationwide commitment to green building practices. We are dedicated to the construction of buildings that create environmental solutions and healthier indoor environments for our homes, schools and offices through better energy and water efficiency. In New York alone, Turner has completed LEED Certified projects in excess of $1 billion, has projects underway worth in excess of $1 billion, and has an additional $3 billion of LEED Registered projects in the planning stages," said Charles Murphy, Senior Vice President Turner Construction Company and General Manager of Turner's New York Office.

SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following three days of presentations, tours, speeches and a rousing environmental “call to action” by former Vice President Al Gore, AIA San Antonio topped off the closing session of the AIA 2007 National Convention and Design Expo with a touch of down-to-earth Texas hospitality: presenting custom-made cowboy boots to American Institute of Architects President RK Stewart, FAIA. AIA San Antonio, host chapter of the blockbuster convention, presented Stewart and other AIA national leaders with the stunning red and black, hand-tooled leather Justin boots, emblazoned with the AIA logo. The closing audience of about 3,000 architects and allied professionals clapped, hooted and hollered their approval. “It was a great way to end a great three days,” said Chris Schultz, AIA, president of AIA San Antonio. “We wanted RK and the other AIA leaders to leave our city with a sustainable token of our appreciation and warm memories of one of the most successful AIA national conventions ever.” “AIA 150: Growing Beyond Green,” celebrated the AIA’s 150th anniversary while focusing on ways architects can employ environmentally conscious building design to join what Gore calls “the front lines” of the green movement in this country and abroad. Approximately 22,000 people from all over the world attended the conference, which generated an estimated $29 million economic impact for the Alamo City. AIA San Antonio created a “green thread” that ran through all host chapter activities. The chapter served organically grown food and vegetables and filtered Texas rainwater at host chapter functions, produced a recyclable green guide to the convention, created a sustainable AIA San Antonio gift store and lounge that will become San Antonio’s new Center for Architecture, created San Antonio’s first-ever green map and published a new guide to the Alamo City’s architecture, “Traditions and Visions: San Antonio Architecture,” which will be used to promote cultural tourism. The chapter’s host party, “Fiesta! San Antonio” at historic La Villita, attracted more than 2,000 guests, boasted sustainable features, non-stop dining and dancing and ended with a bang: a Texas-sized 13-minute fireworks display honoring AIA’s 150th birthday. “We are proud and honored that AIA chose San Antonio to host this historic convention devoted to finding ways to ensure our planet’s future,” Schultz said.

BALTIMORE, May 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Imre Communications, an integrated brand communications firm, today announced that it has added Benjamin Obdyke, designer and manufacturer of residential roof and wall exterior building products, to its expanding roster of clients in its Home & Building practice. Imre Communications will work with the Pennsylvania-based company to establish a consistent brand identity for the organization's line of proprietary roof and wall ventilation solutions. The firm will also provide ongoing strategic counsel, as well as aid in the implementation of Benjamin Obdyke's marketing plan, which targets builders, remodeling, roofing and siding contractors. "We were drawn to Imre Communications because of their in-depth marketing expertise in the home and building space," said Jim Ash, director of marketing for Benjamin Obdyke. "The agency is a natural fit to help us create a fresh, dynamic presence in the professional building market."

SYDNEY, Australia and DALLAS, May 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Lighting Science Group Corporation (LSG) (BULLETIN BOARD: LSGP) , a leading provider of energy efficient and environmentally responsible Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting solutions announced today that it has named Lighting Corporation Limited (ASX Code: LCL), Australia's leading lighting distributor, as the exclusive distributor of its LED solid-state lighting products in Australia and New Zealand. "We are extremely excited about partnering with Lighting Corporation to supply our advanced LED products in Australia and New Zealand. Similar to the United States, these markets understand the limitations of current technology and are quickly moving toward energy efficient, green lighting solutions," said Ron Lusk, chairman and chief executive officer of Lighting Science Group. LSG is the first company to market high-output, dimmable, Edison-base white LED light bulbs. The company currently has 25 patents and patents pending in the LED lighting space and a product portfolio comprised of 30 different SKU's. Dov Mowszowski, managing director and chief executive officer of Lighting Corporation stated, "We are impressed with LSG's current suite of LED lighting products and products under development. Given the Australian Government's moves to ban incandescent light bulbs, we are enthusiastic about introducing this innovative alternative into the Australian and New Zealand Markets." "In addition, we believe that the use of LED's produce immediate economic benefits when compared to other forms of lighting through energy savings, reduced environmental impact and improvement in the quality of light," he added. LED bulbs last up to 50 times longer than incandescent light bulbs, use 80% less energy, and do not contain hazardous materials such as mercury, commonly found in fluorescent and compact fluorescent products.

Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines and the Central Region of American's Oil and Natural Gas Industry help make low-income homes more energy efficient DES MOINES, Iowa, May 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines, the local affiliate of the nation's largest volunteer home rehabilitation organization, and the Central Region of American's Oil and Natural Gas Industry today helped an elderly woman with modest means reduce her energy use and save money as part of an energy-efficient rebuild of her home. The rebuild is part of the Energy Efficient Homes Initiative, a national partnership between Rebuilding Together and America's oil and natural gas industry, which incorporates energy efficiency into home renovations for low- income homeowners nationwide, many of whom are elderly, disabled or have young children. The Initiative is an additional component of the 19-year-old national Rebuilding Together program that will revitalize nearly 10,000 homes across the country this year. With the help of the Initiative, Rebuilding Together will provide low-income homeowners the ability to reduce their energy consumption by as much as 30 percent. "This is a wonderful partnership. Together, we are making a positive difference in the lives of those most in need," said Lori McCombs, executive director, Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines. "Providing low-income homeowners the tools to dramatically improve energy efficiency enables them to save money and use it for other immediate needs such as food and health care." "America's oil and natural gas industry practices energy efficiency every day within its operations, so we know the significant value of such a commitment," said John Kerekes, region director, Central Region. "We are delighted to partner with Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines in this outstanding initiative. Our efforts will provide low-income homeowners the dual benefit of saving both energy and money." Last year, the Initiative was highlighted in 18 rebuilds nationwide, saving low-income homeowners thousands of dollars thanks to a variety of energy-saving features incorporated into their homes. Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines is renovating more than 40 homes throughout the area this year, including the home of an 80-year-old homeowner. After her husband passed away, the homeowner was physically and financially unable to make the necessary home improvements. As part of the Initiative, her home will receive new weather-stripping and insulation, light fixtures with compact fluorescent lights and energy efficient windows and doors. Other renovations to the house will include installing an energy efficient furnace and replacing bathroom fixtures. "I can't believe this is happening to me. I am just happy to have been chosen," said the homeowner. "I appreciate everything so much. These improvements will allow me to live more comfortably in my own home, while saving money," she added. In addition to making homes more energy-efficient, the Initiative also provides low-income homeowners, volunteers and others with materials, and information to help them use energy wisely now and in the future.

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fred Weber, Inc., a major highway contractor and aggregate producer located in greater St. Louis has gone “green” protecting both the environment and the Company pocketbook, by beginning to install Combustion Catalyst Systems (CCS) on its fleet of diesel equipment. While the system is designed to reduce pollutants emitted by diesel engines, the Company got an even bigger surprise. “At first we were a little skeptical,” says Ed Moss, maintenance manager for the construction firm. “We tested the device on an engine loading limestone at one of our mines, and it showed a reduction in particulates of 50 percent. What was just as impressive was that it also showed an average fleet wide fuel savings of 15 percent. And, when our mechanics dismantled the engine, which had run for 7,000 hours, the internal parts looked brand new.” “Fuel savings while extending the life of the engine is not a rocket science proposition. After 7,000 hours of run time and saving three gallons per hour is 21,000 gallons of fuel in just one engine,” recalls Moss. Moss believes that the usable life for the engine can be extended by about 5,000 hours or two years. The catalyst system was designed by Phoenix-based technology company Emissions Technology. It is the size of a large cereal box and is installed under the hood, near the diesel engine’s turbocharger. The technology makes the engine combustion cleaner and more efficient by injecting a platinum-based catalyst into the combustion chamber. The concept is the same as taking a catalytic converter, and installing it on the front end of the combustion cycle, rather than on the exhaust. Today, the 75 year old Fred Weber Company runs 11 mines and quarries that are diesel intensive and all could benefit from the CCS. Fred Weber is committed to improving air quality, and Moss intends to install 50 more catalysts systems this year, well on his way to outfitting his fleet of 300 diesel running generators, loaders and dredgers. He plans to double the number of installations next year. According to Troy Bohlke, vice president of marketing/investor relations for Emissions Technology, “The catalyst system wasn’t even designed to save fuel originally,which we discovered as an additional bonus, but rather, it was designed to reduce particulate emissions from diesel engines, particularly in the West, where pollutions controls are more tightly regulated.” According to the American Lung Association, diesel engines produce nearly 20 percent of all nitrogen oxides (NO2) in outdoor air. Nitrogen oxides are a major contributor to ozone production and smog and are thought to be either the cause or the exacerbating agent of a number of respiratory health problems. Because of these health and environmental concerns, a number of states are penning stricter emissions’ control legislation, sending companies scrambling for ways to retrofit old, non-compliant diesel-powered vehicles. Their choices are limited to either purchasing new equipment which is cost prohibitive, or finding less expensive, after market solutions. Fred Alvis, owner of the Mobile Equipment Sales and Services, Inc., which distributes the catalyst system in the Midwest, was the genesis for Moss and Fred Weber, Inc. using the CCS. Alvis did a similar test on a wheel-loader diesel engine similar to the one tested by Moss with similar results.

Sweets Provides Architects with 1000+ 3D Models of Building Products by 36 Manufacturers in Google SketchUp Format; Models Aid Early Design Process NEW YORK, May 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- McGraw-Hill Construction, part of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE:MHP) , today showcased three-dimensional models of building products for architects and engineers in the Google 3D Warehouse. This initiative provides a faster, more user-friendly method of delivering professional, authentic 3D content. The showcase of this new technology took place at the AIA National Convention and Design Expo in San Antonio, TX. By making 3D models available in an organized Sweets3D Collection at www.sweets.com, McGraw-Hill Construction has enabled architects to integrate specific building products early in the conceptual design process, thus making it easier to convey their full vision for the project to their clients. "Designers stake their reputation on the quality of their designs. They want to create compelling models that help clients truly and accurately visualize an idea," says Norbert Young, president of McGraw-Hill Construction. "Adding 3D models to our Sweets portfolio, which is the design community's leading source of building product information, will help us serve architects in this early conceptual design phase. We are very excited about the tremendous interest we are seeing firsthand at the show." The Sweets 3D Collection in the Google 3D Warehouse launched its pilot in early March with 3D models from Assa Abloy Door Security Solutions, CENTRIA Architectural Systems, DuPont Building Innovations, Nystrom, PPG Industries, Sloan Valve Company, ThyssenKrupp Elevator, and Whirlpool. Since then, the following firms have added models to the collection: A.R.K. Ramos Signage Systems, Alcan Composites, Alcoa, Armstrong Ceiling, The Bilco Company, Blumcraft, DORMA Glas, Draper, EMCO Specialty Products, Inc., Fiberglass Specialties, Inc., Gladiator Garage Works, Haworth, Infinite Storage Solutions, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Inc., Livers Bronze Company, Norton, Optimum Window Manufacturing Corp., Pella Corp., Penco Products, Inc., Peterson Aluminum Corp., Pittsburgh Corning Glass Block, Rixson, Sherwin-Williams, Valiant Products, Inc., The Wagner Companies, Wiremold/Legrand, and Won Door Corp. These 36 firms offer more than 1,000 3D models. "We constantly seek to provide designers with the easiest and best means possible to include Sloan products in their designs. We are very excited to be involved with Sweets3D and Google SketchUp as they break new ground in helping architects realize their vision in a whole new way," said Susan Kennedy, director of marketing, Sloan Valve Company. To view Sweets 3D Collection, go to http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/. Searching for products in the Sweets3D collection is consistent with industry standards based on Sweets CSI indexing, keyword, and company names. "This reflects the way architects, engineers, and contractors think and seek out information. From Google's 3D Warehouse, architects and engineers are able to link directly to the product's web page in www.sweets.com to get more detailed information including product catalogs, CAD details, and 3-part specifications. Having all of this information connected will help architects throughout their design process," added Mr. Young. "SketchUp is an absolutely wonderful 3D tool that enables me to be re- involved in the design process - even on the road," says Peter Moriarty AIA, CEO of 600-person A/E firm Burt Hill. "Best of all, it has revived the fun I used to have when I was on the drawing board. I often work with it in my hotel room, after a client meeting, in order to develop my thoughts on the design direction, which I then email to a design team in one of our offices. Typically, they advance my concepts in SketchUp, and then export the model to a more sophisticated CAD or BIM tool for final design. Knowing that I can extract actual building products from the Sweets Collection for SketchUp in the Google 3D Warehouse to insert into the model, I am more confident that the initial concept will work without requiring major resizing or reconfiguration," Moriarty added.

SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With 20,000 guests to educate and entertain, the San Antonio Chapter of the American Institute of Architects has pulled out all the stops to ensure a memorable AIA 2007 National Convention May 3-5. “AIA 150: Growing Beyond Green,” celebrates the AIA’s 150th anniversary while focusing on ways architects can embrace and foster the concepts of environmentally conscious building design. To complement the national organization’s theme, AIA San Antonio has ensured that a “green thread” runs through all host chapter activities, from serving organically grown food and vegetables at host chapter functions and producing a recyclable green guide to the convention, to creating a sustainable AIA San Antonio gift store and lounge that will be transformed into the home of San Antonio’s new Center for Architecture. (Sales will also generate funds for the chapter’s new Architecture Foundation of San Antonio.) In addition, the chapter produced San Antonio’s first-ever green map in time for the gathering and researched, wrote and published a brand-new new guide to the Alamo City’s architecture, “Traditions and Visions: San Antonio Architecture,” which makes its debut at the convention and showcases the city’s most impressive architectural contributions spanning nearly three centuries. Professional and guest tours were also created with “green” in mind, and even the blockbuster chapter host party, “Fiesta! San Antonio” at historic La Villita, will boast many sustainable features while spotlighting the city’s ethnic diversity and unique architectural history. Speakers at the three-day gathering include some of the biggest names in the architectural and design industries, including former Vice President Al Gore, who will deliver the closing presentation on Saturday, May 5. “We are proud and honored to serve as host chapter of this history-making convention,” said Chris Schultz, AIA, president of AIA San Antonio. “San Antonio’s frontier spirit, in which the most is made from scarcity, embodies the true spirit of what the national AIA organization is trying to accomplish: promoting sustainable living around the world.” AIA San Antonio is the fourth largest chapter of the AIA in Texas.

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fred Weber, Inc., a major highway contractor and aggregate producer located in greater St. Louis has gone “green” protecting both the environment and the Company pocketbook, by beginning to install Combustion Catalyst Systems (CCS) on its fleet of diesel equipment. While the system is designed to reduce pollutants emitted by diesel engines, the Company got an even bigger surprise. “At first we were a little skeptical,” says Ed Moss, maintenance manager for the construction firm. “We tested the device on an engine loading limestone at one of our mines, and it showed a reduction in particulates of 50 percent. What was just as impressive was that it also showed an average fleet wide fuel savings of 15 percent. And, when our mechanics dismantled the engine, which had run for 7,000 hours, the internal parts looked brand new.” “Fuel savings while extending the life of the engine is not a rocket science proposition. After 7,000 hours of run time and saving three gallons per hour is 21,000 gallons of fuel in just one engine,” recalls Moss. Moss believes that the usable life for the engine can be extended by about 5,000 hours or two years. The catalyst system was designed by Phoenix-based technology company Emissions Technology. It is the size of a large cereal box and is installed under the hood, near the diesel engine’s turbocharger. The technology makes the engine combustion cleaner and more efficient by injecting a platinum-based catalyst into the combustion chamber. The concept is the same as taking a catalytic converter, and installing it on the front end of the combustion cycle, rather than on the exhaust. Today, the 75 year old Fred Weber Company runs 11 mines and quarries that are diesel intensive and all could benefit from the CCS. Fred Weber is committed to improving air quality, and Moss intends to install 50 more catalysts systems this year, well on his way to outfitting his fleet of 300 diesel running generators, loaders and dredgers. He plans to double the number of installations next year. According to Troy Bohlke, vice president of marketing/investor relations for Emissions Technology, “The catalyst system wasn’t even designed to save fuel originally,which we discovered as an additional bonus, but rather, it was designed to reduce particulate emissions from diesel engines, particularly in the West, where pollutions controls are more tightly regulated.” According to the American Lung Association, diesel engines produce nearly 20 percent of all nitrogen oxides (NO2) in outdoor air. Nitrogen oxides are a major contributor to ozone production and smog and are thought to be either the cause or the exacerbating agent of a number of respiratory health problems. Because of these health and environmental concerns, a number of states are penning stricter emissions’ control legislation, sending companies scrambling for ways to retrofit old, non-compliant diesel-powered vehicles. Their choices are limited to either purchasing new equipment which is cost prohibitive, or finding less expensive, after market solutions. Fred Alvis, owner of the Mobile Equipment Sales and Services, Inc., which distributes the catalyst system in the Midwest, was the genesis for Moss and Fred Weber, Inc. using the CCS. Alvis did a similar test on a wheel-loader diesel engine similar to the one tested by Moss with similar results.

ASCOT, England, May 4/PRNewswire/ -- 'Ideas are the currency of the future' - a Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) survey into innovation in the construction industry, found almost half of the 459 managers and directors questioned would develop 'green' technology and techniques. Michael Brown CIOB deputy chief executive said, "What we have seen through this research is that sustainability is clearly at the top of the agenda for the construction industry. Almost 50% of respondents voiced innovative 'green' ideas that ranged from carbon neutral construction materials, renewable energy systems, energy efficient heating systems through to solar powered equipment and better waste management products. With 60% of respondents stating that 'green' issues currently require the most research and development (R & D); it is clear from this survey that there is a deep concern for environmental issues from within the construction industry. "The construction industry is not widely perceived as offering an environment that nurtures creativity. However, this survey has suggested otherwise with a large volume of ideas being expressed, and innovation regarded by the majority as crucial to the sustainable future of the industry." The study sought specific opinion on the current state of innovation within construction including the climate of R & D investment compared to turnover. The survey analysed the impact of current innovations and where they were most likely to come from in terms of sector and geography. In addition the study examined the respondent's aspirations and ideas as to what issues they felt would require an innovative response from the industry. The respondents were also given the opportunity to express what areas they would develop with a million pound R & D budget.

SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lucifer Lighting Company—a premier manufacturer of low voltage lighting fixtures for high end applications—is to exhibit cutting edge products at the America Institute of Architects (AIA) 150th Anniversary Show in the “Push Button House”, designed by architect Adam Kalkin. The exhibition will be at Booth 10291 at the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas from May 3-5. Lucifer Lighting’s booth at the AIA epitomizes the conference’s “sustainable design” theme. The booth is an 8’ by 20’ shipping container, which has been converted into a “Push Button House” (PBH). The PBH has been exhibited at Art Basel in Miami and at the Deitch Project in New York City, and is currently being explored by groups such as FEMA as a possible answer to disaster relief housing. Please find attached a clip of the PBH in motion. Light sources exhibited by the company include metal halide, light emitting diodes (LED) and compact fluorescent, all of which have been incorporated into sleek minimalist fixtures.

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c55570) has announced the addition of Handbook of Construction Tolerances, 2nd Edition to their offering. The comprehensive guide to construction tolerances, newly revised and updated. How much may a steel frame be out of plumb? What are the expected variations of a precast concrete panel? What is required to successfully detail finish materials on masonry? Updating and expanding on its popular first edition, the Handbook of Construction Tolerances, Second Edition remains the only comprehensive reference to the thousands of industry standard tolerances for the manufacture, fabrication, and installation of construction materials and components -- including all-important accumulated dimensional variations.

Like EPA's ENERGY STAR program, WaterSense(SM) label will help consumers choose products that are more efficient KOHLER, Wis., May 2 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of celebrating Earth Day in April and moving forward into the inevitable summer drought months, consumers are sure to be inundated with messages about ways to reduce water use in their homes and workplaces. To help make sense of it all and to spur consumers into action, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is beginning to test products for its WaterSense program, a labeling program that encourages water efficiency and the use of water efficient products that perform as well as or better than their less efficient counterparts. As of April, eight toilets from Kohler Co. earned the WaterSense label, which means these toilets use at least 20 percent less water than standard 1.6-gallon toilets while still meeting strict flushing performance guidelines. "The WaterSense label lets consumers know with certainty that they're choosing products that use significantly less water, without having to worry whether those products will still perform well," said Rob Zimmerman, senior staff engineer for Kohler's water conservation initiatives. "Kohler Co. has made a commitment to being a leader and innovator in this area, and we look forward to developing products that meet both WaterSense and Kohler's shared commitment to conservation and quality." According to estimates, the average family of four uses about 400 gallons of water each day, and toilets represent a whopping 26 percent of all home indoor water use. Using the same premise as the EPA's ENERGY STAR program, which focuses on products that meet certain energy-efficiency criteria, WaterSense has been developed to easily identify products that conserve water, yet utilizes third party product certification bodies.

McGraw-Hill Construction Releases the Greening of Corporate America SmartMarket(TM) Report NEW YORK, May 2 /PRNewswire/ -- McGraw-Hill Construction (MHC), part of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE:MHP) , in conjunction with its research and report partner Siemens, today released the Greening of Corporate America SmartMarket(TM) report detailing corporate America's opinions on sustainability and green building. The landmark study, sixth in a series, reveals that not only are most U.S. corporate leaders interested in sustainability, but the majority of leaders are also examining proactive ways to make sustainability a consistent part of their companies' missions. Eighteen percent of leaders surveyed are in the upper, or market transformational, stages, with 15% viewing sustainability as a competitive advantage and 3% actually driving their entire businesses through this value-driven lens. Over the next three years, more companies see themselves as entering this top tier, with nearly a third of the sample aiming to be market leaders in sustainability. "The SmartMarket(TM) report's current numbers are encouraging, and the predictions are even more exciting," explains Harvey M. Bernstein, MHC vice president of Industry Analytics, Alliances and Strategic Initiatives. "Almost 60% of the top decision-makers in America's most important corporations are seeing the value in sustainability concepts now, with that number expected to increase dramatically to 88% in just three years." "Today's corporate leaders are already very conscious of using green practices when considering new facilities, and they expect green building to have an increasing impact in the future," said Brad Haeberle, director of Marketing, Siemens Building Technologies, Inc., "Moreover, they believe that green building is in their company's best interests, not only for the clear economic benefits, but for the market differentiation and competitive advantage," he added.

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NeighborWorks® America reported today that 2006 was the NeighborWorks® network’s most successful year for multifamily development and ownership, with more than 6,100 new units added to the network’s portfolio. That is up sharply from more than 4,563 units in 2005 and a 400 percent increase from the 1,187 units added in 2002. At December 30, 2006, there were more than 63,000 apartment units owned or managed within the NeighborWorks® network, up from 59,581 apartment units at the end of 2005. The strong showing in 2006 is the result of continued high demand for affordable housing around the country and NeighborWorks® network members’ ability to work creatively with local government, business and financial institutions to keep housing affordable in today’s tight markets. “The NeighborWorks® Multifamily Initiative is now in its tenth year and is going stronger than ever,” said Frances Ferguson, national director for NeighborWorks® America. “Members coast-to-coast are finding ways to bring decent, attractive and low-cost housing to thousands of families.” Ferguson noted that NeighborWorks organizations use a variety of development tools to make their projects work, including aggressively bidding for tax credit projects, mixing market-rate units with below-market rate units and even mixing light commercial use within residential projects. “Affordable housing cannot be cookie cutter,” said Ferguson. “Developers and managers in the NeighborWorks® network know this and are among the leaders in applying new financial approaches to keep costs down, rents low and families in great affordable housing.” About NeighborWorks® America NeighborWorks America provides financial support, technical assistance and training for communities across the nation through the NeighborWorks network of over 235 nonprofit organizations covering nearly 4,500 urban, suburban and rural communities. These organizations engage in revitalization strategies that strengthen communities and transform lives. In the last five years alone, NeighborWorks organizations have generated more than $12 billion in reinvestment and helped more than 845,000 families of modest means purchase or improve their homes, or secure safe, decent rental or mutual housing.

LANSING, Mich., May 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Advocates in the Affordable Housing and Community Development industry were honored today at the 9th annual Michigan Conference on Affordable Housing awards luncheon at the Lansing Center in Lansing, Michigan. The 2007 Michigan Conference on Affordable Housing has a focus on six main areas of Michigan's affordable housing issues: ending homelessness, homeownership, creating and preserving multifamily housing, community economic development, organizational development and new this year, asset management for individuals and families. Workshops, networking opportunities and discussions will concentrate on these key areas. In addition, there will be educational sessions on advocacy skill development. The Michigan Homeownership Achievement Award is awarded annually by the Michigan Home Ownership Coalition (MHOC) to a disabled homebuyer who has overcome numerous obstacles facing persons with disabilities as first-time homebuyers. The MHOC is proud to present the 2007 Homeownership Achievement Award to Joseph Gamble and Davina Green of Pontiac, MI. Mr. and Mrs. Gamble- Green along with their son purchased a new home in Pontiac June, 2005. This home was part of the Unity Park revitalization project undertaken by Lighthouse Community Development (LCD). The key to their success was determination on their part and that of their counselor, the cooperation of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the patience of their loan officer. In addition to educational sessions, the conference hosted two roundtable discussions, the topics focused on Michigan's Campaign to End Homelessness and the Living in Michigan Campaign for Michigan's Housing and Community Development Fund. The conference will wrap up on Wednesday May 2nd, with an advocacy day lunch on the lawn event to take place on the Capitol Lawn from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.