Company Owner Ben Kaufman Spearheaded Proposal That Enables House Hunters to Search MLS Listings for Properties with Green Design Features SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In its effort to reduce global warming, GreenWorks Realty, the first real estate agency in the nation to specialize in green and community-focused housing, endorsed the new green home design check box that was launched a week and a half ago by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The Northwest MLS is one of the first and largest MLS in the nation to put this into practice. The new check boxes identify green and eco-friendly properties, thus increasing awareness among buyers, sellers and industry professionals. There are already new green homes listed on MLS using this feature. The proposal to add the green design features to the Northwest MLS properties was initiated and spearheaded by GreenWorks' owner/broker Ben Kaufman. The new green database listings, already in place, will allow house hunters to search for properties with certain green certifications and/or environmentally-friendly features. Certifications include Built Green, Energy Star and Leadership in Environmental and Energy (LEED). Green features include solar power, bamboo and other renewable flooring, and drought resistant landscaping. In addition, sellers will now be able to attach thorough third party verifications to their listings to be made available for review by buyers. “Homebuyers are increasingly demanding green homes, and with good reason. The new green checkboxes will help homebuyers to more easily locate green homes and help us focus more time on assisting our clients in understanding important differences between green homes or greening traditional homes,” said Kaufman, whose firm provides services to buyers and sellers for both green and traditional properties. “Across the country, smart homebuyers understand that green homes are better for them, and better for our planet, addressing important issues such as personal health and global warming. This is a win-win-win deal, for people, planet, and the local economy.”

Certification Assures Consumers That Wilsonart Solid Surface Products Are Free from Chemical Emissions, Making Them Safe for Durable, Elegant Installations That Contribute to Quality Indoor Air TEMPLE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wilsonart® Solid Surface, a division of Wilsonart International, Inc., today announced its solid surface products have been awarded the GREENGUARD® Indoor Air Quality Certification and GREENGUARD Children & SchoolsSM certification. The certifications cover Wilsonart solid surface sheets, sinks, bowls and seam adhesive. GREENGUARD certification means Wilsonart products are safe for indoor applications and make a significant contribution to quality indoor air by meeting strict chemical and particle emission guidelines. Wilsonart Solid Surface products are widely used in both residential and commercial environments to construct countertops, service areas, partitions, vanities and related structures in the convenience/retail, education, hospitality, healthcare and military industries. Architects, interior designers, building professionals and homeowners are now assured that Wilsonart products have passed rigorous third-party testing to verify conformance with stringent low-emissions standards. The GREENGUARD Children & Schools certification signifies a compliance with the State of California’s Department of Health Services’ standard practices for testing chemical emissions from building products used in schools. Children are more heavily exposed to environmental toxins than adults. They consume more food, water, and have higher inhalation rates per pound of body weight than adults. This certification ensures the materials used in learning environments are safe for young children1. Wilsonart Solid Surface offers a tantalizing array of colors and patterns that add beauty to any décor. The cast-acrylic sheets offer extraordinary dimensional stability and are resistant to bacteria, mold, mildew and stains. Designed for both horizontal and vertical applications, these durable sheets meet FDA standards for use in food prep and service areas. Wilsonart’s integral sinks and bowls are offered in four colors and a variety of styles to compliment your countertop, and feature a smooth, clean transition for great looks and easy maintenance. Wilsonart Solid Surface products are renewable, repairable and stain resistant, and are backed by a ten-year commercial limited warranty and a ten-year installed, transferable residential limited warranty. Wilsonart operates a nationwide distributor network with outstanding dealer support and customer service. “Wilsonart offers quality solid surfaces that are beautiful, durable and easy to care for. Adding GREENGUARD certification validates our commitment to the total user experience -- which includes promoting healthy indoor air,” said Jerry Samu, General Manager, Wilsonart Solid Surface.

New Private Label Paint to Use BioQuest’s ProShield 5000 JUPITER, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BioQuest Technologies, Inc., (Pink Sheets:BQTG), a leading developer of innovative, environmentally safe antimicrobial products, today announced it has been contracted by the Lynd Company, one of the top 50 largest apartment management companies in the U.S., to work with the Sherwin-Williams Company (NYSE:SHW) on a private label paint. The new private label antimicrobial paint will be a blend of BioQuest’s ProShield 5000 and Sherwin-Williams paint. The Lynd Company will use the new private label paint in its apartment communities which are location throughout the U.S. The Lynd Company, headquartered in San Antonio, TX, is a 25 year old professional property management company dedicated to providing quality living environments for an enjoyable living experience. The Lynd Company and its subsidiaries have financed, brokered and/or purchased over $1 billion in multifamily investments across markets in the southeastern and southwestern U.S. The company was ranked the 35th largest apartment manager in the U.S. for 2007, up from 40th place in 2006 by the National Multi Housing Council. “Developing an antimicrobial paint with Sherwin-Williams on behalf of the Lynd Company reinforces the proven effective, measurable benefits our products offer like ProShield 5000,” said Arne Rotne II, CEO of BioQuest Technologies, Inc. “Since our products can be used in a multitude of areas incorporating our powerful antimicrobial solution with the quality of Sherwin-Williams paint makes a lot of sense. Apartment communities, homes and condos alike can realize direct results with BioQuest’s unique line of products which reduce and even can eliminate bacteria on most surfaces.” Rotne said the Lynd Company is one of the largest customers of Sherwin-Williams paint which makes it possible to have them involved when it comes to creating a private label antimicrobial paint. By utilizing the new private label antimicrobial paint it will greatly reduce or eliminate mold and mildew in each apartment unit. In addition, maintenance costs are reduced and property value is maintained along with creating a better, safer, healthy living environment.

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wright Community College, located at 4300 N. Narragansett Ave. in Chicago, recently installed two solar systems. One solar system generates electricity for the lights in the parking garage and prevents an estimated 2 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The other solar system produces 400 gallons of hot water daily for the campus and prevents an estimate 6 tons of carbon emissions annually. Both systems were designed and installed by Solar Service Inc. of Niles, Illinois. The school’s goal is to utilize renewable energy to lower utility bills, educate students and the community about solar energy and protect the environment. Wright Community College launched a Building Energy Technologies curriculum in the fall of 2006. This program educates students about practical applications of renewable energy and energy efficiency. “These new solar systems will serve as ideal learning tools for this curriculum, the environmental club, and the community as a whole. The solar systems are a focal point for both our educational curriculum and for our community activities” said David R. Inman, Project Manager for the Building Energy Technologies Program. “Wright is an active member in the surrounding community and we will certainly let the community know we are utilizing solar energy and offer tours.” The 1.8 kW solar electric system consists of ten panels and is an awning mounted system on the parking garage. The solar hot water system consists of six solar collectors that are mounted to the penthouse wall of the science building. The system feeds hot water to the cafeteria and the science labs and is mounted as a 10 ft. by 25 ft. awning. “It is rare to see an awning mounted system of this size,” said Bruno Zaucha, a Renewable Energy Specialist for Solar Service Inc. “The school wanted to avoid roof penetrations, so Solar Service proposed an awning mount.” “We got the largest bang for our buck by heating our domestic hot water in the science building,” said David R Inman. Solar hot water systems are the least expensive way to heat water in Illinois. Grants from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation and the Illinois Renewable Energy Resource Program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity paid for a majority of the system cost.

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wright Community College, located at 4300 N. Narragansett Ave. in Chicago, recently installed two solar systems. One solar system generates electricity for the lights in the parking garage and prevents an estimated 2 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The other solar system produces 400 gallons of hot water daily for the campus and prevents an estimate 6 tons of carbon emissions annually. Both systems were designed and installed by Solar Service Inc. of Niles, Illinois. The school’s goal is to utilize renewable energy to lower utility bills, educate students and the community about solar energy and protect the environment. Wright Community College launched a Building Energy Technologies curriculum in the fall of 2006. This program educates students about practical applications of renewable energy and energy efficiency. “These new solar systems will serve as ideal learning tools for this curriculum, the environmental club, and the community as a whole. The solar systems are a focal point for both our educational curriculum and for our community activities” said David R. Inman, Project Manager for the Building Energy Technologies Program. “Wright is an active member in the surrounding community and we will certainly let the community know we are utilizing solar energy and offer tours.” The 1.8 kW solar electric system consists of ten panels and is an awning mounted system on the parking garage. The solar hot water system consists of six solar collectors that are mounted to the penthouse wall of the science building. The system feeds hot water to the cafeteria and the science labs and is mounted as a 10 ft. by 25 ft. awning. “It is rare to see an awning mounted system of this size,” said Bruno Zaucha, a Renewable Energy Specialist for Solar Service Inc. “The school wanted to avoid roof penetrations, so Solar Service proposed an awning mount.” “We got the largest bang for our buck by heating our domestic hot water in the science building,” said David R Inman. Solar hot water systems are the least expensive way to heat water in Illinois. Grants from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation and the Illinois Renewable Energy Resource Program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity paid for a majority of the system cost.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Orchard Garden Hotel has been awarded LEED® (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). San Francisco’s first hotel to earn this honor, the Orchard Garden is only the third hotel in the U.S. and fourth hotel in the world with this certification. LEED is the USGBC’s leading edge system for designing and constructing the world’s greenest, energy-efficient, high performing buildings. The 86-room, $25 million new construction, the first of a new generation of hotels, is set in the heart of San Francisco—one block from Union Square, steps away from the Chinatown gate and adjacent to the Financial District. Inspiration for the hotel comes from its 83-year-old owner, Mrs. S.C. Huang. She is passionate about clean environments, after the untimely cancer-related deaths of three family members, and has devoted herself to creating an environmentally safe, sustainable hotel. LEED Certification was based on numerous green design and construction features that positively impact the project and the broader community. From the building’s framework and construction practices, to guest room and public space lighting and décor, to housekeeping, the Orchard Garden Hotel boasts environmentally sustainable practices unmatched in the hospitality industry. Eco-friendly construction materials include concrete made with fly ash, a byproduct of recycling coal, and wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council as harvested in a sustainable manner. One environmentally sustainable construction practice diverted debris from landfill disposal by redirecting recyclable material back to the manufacturing process. The well-insulated building makes guest rooms very quiet and uses less energy for heating and air-conditioning. Water faucets and toilets are ‘low-flow;’ specially designed carpets include recycled content and have low chemical emissions. The hotel’s green practices include organic, chemical-free cleaning products, a 100% tobacco-free environment, recycled paper and soy-based inks, in-room recycling bins and the debut of a guestroom key card energy control system. All fabrics are made with recycled polyester and other textiles without chemicals and are machine-washed to avoid dry cleaning chemicals.

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Austin-based affiliate of the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) announces its endorsement of a program to reduce greenhouse emissions released by its members’ 35 million square feet of commercial office space. At its recent board of directors meeting, BOMA Austin passed a resolution to begin benchmarking energy usage of its members’ 35 million square feet of commercial space in Greater Austin. The goal is to quantify local commercial building energy consumption through the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star Program and to implement measures to reduce greenhouse emissions. “Austin is striving to be a leader in reducing greenhouse emissions. Mayor Will Wynn has a progressive plan for shrinking the City of Austin’s carbon footprint. One of the biggest concerns is the emissions from existing buildings,” said John Sutton, Committee Chair, BOMA Austin. “Commercial buildings consume some 70 percent of the energy in the U.S. and are responsible for 38 percent of the greenhouse emissions. BOMA is striving to be a leader on emission reduction. Our benchmarking initiative will create a framework for reaching key goals.” BOMA Austin will leverage the BOMA Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP), a collaborative effort with the EPA’s Energy Star Program, to reduce energy usage through no- and low-cost strategies. Members will be able to track their progress in collaboration with local utilities. BEEP’s best-practices strive to create a 30 percent in reduction energy usage in commercial buildings. BOMA Austin’s goal is to achieve this reduction in 90 percent of its member buildings over the next three years. “BOMA Austin’s benchmarking program is a critical first step toward achieving the energy efficiency goals outlined in the Austin Climate Protection Plan,” said Mayor Wynn. “I applaud the move and hope other business associations and community organizations will follow BOMA’s lead.” BOMA Austin’s move endorses and supports the BOMA International Environmental Task Force recommendation to create an energy conservation business plan that focuses on a strategy to transform the industry to reduce real estate’s greenhouse emissions and dependence on non-renewable sources of energy through voluntary measures. The commercial office building industry spends approximately $24 billion annually nationally on energy costs, the single largest controllable operating expense for office buildings. The BEEP program estimates a 30 percent reduction in energy consumption, or $7.2 billion, is readily achievable by improving building operating standards.

AUSTIN, Texas, June 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Wilson Holdings, Inc. (AMEX:WIH) today announced that on June 19, 2007 it acquired Green Builders, Inc. an Austin, Texas-based homebuilding company, and Wilson Holdings will commence its homebuilding operations through the Green Builders, Inc. brand. "Through Green Builders, Inc., we plan to introduce affordable "green" housing to the Central Texas market," said Clark Wilson, CEO and President of Wilson Holdings, Inc. "We plan to position Green Builders, Inc. as a leader in the real estate market with sensible, sustainable home designs that are efficient, healthy and attractive, while addressing the needs of a wide range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to active adults." The Company also expects to expand Green Builders, Inc. to other markets in the country. Green Builders, Inc. plans to begin construction of homes in Georgetown Village, Georgetown, Texas; Elm Grove, Buda, Texas; and Rutherford West, Driftwood, Texas. "Environmentally sustainable home building becomes more important every day -- out of necessity it's a trend that is increasing nationwide. The innovative, efficient use of natural resources will help keep home prices from rising exorbitantly in the future, which bodes well for the company, the growing population and the limited capabilities of our planet," stated Mark Dotzour, Chief Economist and Director of Research for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and an advisor to Wilson Holdings, Inc. Industry veteran Victor Ayad, the President and sole stockholder of Green Builders, Inc. prior to the acquisition, also joins the Board of Directors of Wilson Holdings, Inc. The Company believes that Mr. Ayad will provide valuable insight and strategic direction to help expand the company and build a national brand, which he sees as vital to the future of the housing market.

PARKER, Colo., June 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Local construction advisors offer homeowners the opportunity to manage their own building projects and build green. Nick Blair and Brent Gates, owners of the UBuildIt-Parker office, joined the Built Green Colorado program to give their owner-builder clients access to the benefits of green building. Co-owner Nick Blair explained, "Next to the mortgage, home energy bills are the largest on-going expense associated with home ownership. A 'green' home provides energy savings for the life of the home. It also qualifies for energy credits with the local power company and the Federal Residential Energy Efficiency Tax." Owner-builders also gain added value. A study by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) and the EPA reported that for every one-dollar decrease in a home's annual utility bill due to energy efficiency, the market value of that home increases twenty dollars. According to co-owner Brent Gates, the health of the environment is a common concern in our society. Recent polls found that upwards of 80% of all Americans consider themselves "environmentalists". Built Green provides the tools to build homes that speak to this concern, and the UBuildIt System gives owners the opportunity to direct their own green building project. UBuildIt's construction advisors show owner-builders how to use technologies, products and practices to increase energy efficiency, provide healthier indoor air, reduce water usage, improve comfort and durability, reduce maintenance and reduce pollution. Through UBuildIt, owner-builders can receive the Built Green designation for their homes by building to the program's standards. Built Green criteria include an energy efficiency requirement and a minimum number of "green" options from the Built Green Checklist. "More than a trend, building green represents a commitment to the environment and improving the way we build and live," said Blair. "Owner-builders can team with UBuildIt to contribute to a healthier community and better world, while reaping the savings, health and comfort benefits of building green."

Customers can Evaluate the Cost Impact of Using “Green” Methods and Materials BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Beck Technology, LLC and FutureStone Partners Ltd. announced the first “green” assembly available in DProfiler™ with RSMeans – a Macro Building Information Modeler. The eco-friendly/energy efficient assembly is available for cost analysis in the conceptual and early design phases, establishing a feasible way to integrate “green” methods and materials into buildings. “The ability to easily evaluate the financial impact of using ‘green’ methods and materials, without adding to the cost/time of design, is a real breakthrough for customers,” said Randy McGuffee, Vice President of FutureStone. “The push for ‘greener’ building methods continues to grow more urgent every year; the demand is enormous.” Customers are often overwhelmed with the complexity of fitting “green” products into their current processes. Adding “green” assemblies to the DProfiler with RSMeans database allows Architects and builders to evaluate the cost impact and scope “green” options. The first “green” assembly to be added to DProfiler with RSMeans is a wall assembly using insulating concrete forms (ICF) to construct poured-in-place, reinforced concrete walls for the building. The resulting walls are durable, energy efficient and soundproof. This assembly is eco-friendly and contributes towards Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Certification and other energy efficiency designations. The use of ICF’s for the forming, insulation and finish attachment make this assembly cost competitive to more traditional wall assemblies, very often generating up-front construction savings on a project. “Beck Technology is pleased to offer ‘green’ options in DProfiler through our partnership with FutureStone,” said Stewart Carroll, COO, Beck Technology. “This ‘green’ assembly will continue to advance and expand to become a more elaborate and comprehensive set of ‘green’ options for use in DProfler with RSMeans.”

St. Clair Energy Centre in Ontario Will Feature a 570-Megawatt Combined Cycle Power Plant IRVING, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fluor Corporation (NYSE:FLR) announced today that its subsidiary, Fluor Canada, Ltd., was awarded a procurement and construction project by St. Clair Power, L.P. to build a 570-megawatt combined cycle power plant in Ontario, Canada. Fluor received a full notice to proceed in the first quarter 2007. Completion of the power plant is projected to be in the fourth quarter 2008. The approximate contract value of the award is $250 million and was booked in the first quarter 2007. Fluor’s scope of work will consist of procurement, construction and commissioning of the plant at a greenfield site. At its peak, Fluor expects to employ approximately 650 craft workers. St. Clair Power, L.P. is owned by affiliates of Invenergy LLC and Stark Investments, L.P. Invenergy is an independent power producer, with headquarters in Chicago, IL, that develops, owns, and operates natural gas-fueled and wind energy power projects. Stark is a global alternative investment firm headquartered in Milwaukee, WI. “Fluor’s reliability and strong track record of successfully delivering on-time projects in the power sector were key factors in our decision,” said Pat West, Vice-President of Construction and Asset Management for Invenergy. “The additional electric capacity created by this facility will provide power to the Ontario Power Authority in Ontario, Canada while ultimately lowering air emissions.” “We have been engaged with St. Clair Power, L.P. during the permitting process, and we have recently started construction of this new power facility. We look forward to helping St. Clair Power L.P. deliver affordable and environmentally friendly electricity to the citizens of Ontario,” said David Constable, president of Fluor’s Power Group. “Fluor will leverage its project management systems to deliver a world-class facility and do so in a manner that reflects our strong safety culture,” added Constable. Over the last seven years, Fluor has completed 44 natural gas-fired power projects totaling nearly 35,000 megawatts of electric capacity.

St. Regis Mohawk Tribe and Empire Resorts Move Closer to Building the Northeast’s First LEED Certified ‘Green’ Casino MONTICELLO, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe and Empire Resorts (NASDAQ: NYNY) announced today that the proposed St. Regis Mohawk Casino at Monticello Raceway has taken a first step toward LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Certification. The group has registered the casino project with the U.S. Green Building Council. The action was the first step towards achieving the construction of the first LEED Certified ‘green’ casino in the Northeast. Documentation demonstrating that the project has successfully met the sustainable design and performance criteria set forth within the LEED Green Building Rating System must be submitted, reviewed, and approved by USGBC before the building is officially certified. LEED is a registered trademark of the U.S. Green Building Council. “We are proud that the LEED certification process is underway and are thrilled by the results of the pre-certification analysis,” said Mohawk Tribal Chief Lorraine White. “This will be the first casino of its type – and one of the first of any type in the nation – to achieve LEED certification. This clearly underscores our commitment to protecting the environment.” “Empire Resorts is excited about starting the process that will earn LEED certification, a prestigious recognition that has been a focal point of Empire Resorts and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe throughout the planning for the casino,” said Dave Hanlon, CEO of Empire Resorts. “We expect the St. Regis Mohawk Casino to become a model for all future facilities concerned with protecting the environment.” To earn LEED certification, a building project must meet certain prerequisites and performance benchmarks in five key areas of human and environmental health – sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

SAN DIEGO, June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Wireless sensor network (WSN) technology's clean and inexpensive system deployments will result in more buildings using less energy, needing less maintenance, and producing lower carbon emissions, according to ON World. By 2011, global revenues for WSN commercial building solutions will be $2.6 billion. Rising end user awareness and demand, a strengthening value system, and hardening standards is increasing WSN adoption in Green buildings worldwide. Twenty-five percent of commercial building energy reduction will be attributed to WSN in 2013, worth $7.4 billion in global energy savings. "Energy management has always been a major driver for commercial buildings to adopt building control technologies, but now achieving Green status is becoming the primary driving force," says Mareca Hatler, Director of Research for ON World. Driven by social and economic forces, building owners worldwide are adopting Green solutions in order to increase efficiency, lower costs, reduce operational risks, and satisfy the demands of customers, employees, and shareholders.

Building store employee just as likely to spur more action as President Bush BUFFALO, NY, June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- A new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Icynene has found nearly two-thirds (64%) of U.S. homeowners claim to have taken 'some' or 'a lot' of action to reduce greenhouse gases, yet only four percent believe their homes and offices contribute most to apparent increases in greenhouse gas emissions. The poll of more than 1,200 U.S. homeowners found nearly half (46%) admit they don't know much about environmental issues and the impact of greenhouse gas emissions and only 11% claim to have done 'a lot' to reduce emissions in their own homes. With the building sector accounting for almost half of all greenhouse gas emissions in the United States (source: U.S. Green Building Council), learning from the poll suggests Americans could play a far greater role than they might think in reducing greenhouse gases at home. Greenfluence: Bush vs. building store employee Ipsos Reid asked U.S. homeowners who would most influence them to take more action on reducing greenhouse gases. According to the poll, a non-profit organization such as the American Lung Association (37%) or a building organization such as the U.S. Green Building Council (31%) are the most likely to influence homeowner action on greenhouse gases. Americans, however, seem to have little faith in the guidance of elected politicians on environmental issues: - Americans are just as likely to be influenced to do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an employee of a home improvement store (16%) as by President Bush (16%), who also barely ranked above eco-friendly celebrities such as Brad Pitt or Robert Redford (14%).

Acoustiblok(R), a revolutionary sound proofing product, is now available to dramatically reduce sound disturbances in private homes and condominiums, hotels, hospitals and office buildings around the world. When personal privacy is necessary, this significant reduction in conversation and noise transmission through walls, ceilings and floors affords occupants significantly increased privacy and solitude. Acoustiblok is made of a 3 mm thick proprietary viscoelastic polymer material with a high density mineral content, heavy yet extremely flexible. While other manufacturers of sound proofing material attempt to stop or absorb sound, Acoustiblok has resolved the problem in a vastly different way: through a unique thermodynamic process, Acoustiblok is engineered to transform sound energy into inaudible friction energy as the material flexes from sound waves. One 3 mm layer of Acoustiblok in a standard metal or wood stud wall will result in more sound reduction -- and provide more privacy -- than 30.5 centimeters of poured concrete (Certified lab results). Environmentally friendly, Acoustiblok contains no lead or asbestos, is UV resistant and impervious to water and mold; it is UL fire rated and approved for virtually all wall, floor and ceiling installations. Easily cut with a utility knife, Acoustiblok requires no special tools or preparation. Acoustiblok is typically applied as part of a layered wall, ceiling or floor construction; it is usually stapled to wood studs, or screwed to metal studs, prior to hanging drywall.

BERKS COUNTY, Pa., June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The Heritage of Green Hills, a continuing care retirement community that will become Berks County's largest, began construction with a "Salute to Freedom" festival today -- months ahead of its previously announced groundbreaking. The Heritage of Green Hills will be built on 78 acres of hilltop land off Route 10 in Cumru Township. When complete, the community will include more than 460 apartments and 39 villas and will be home to more than 800 residents. The Heritage of Green Hills will also offer private assisted-living suites, memory care and nursing care, enabling the community to provide a full spectrum of support to its residents. The community will also have a significant economic impact on the region. The project carries a total cost of $140 million and will create 200 new jobs. In addition, the completed community will generate hundreds of thousands in tax revenues that will benefit local governments without burdening schools. The original timeline called for construction to begin in early 2008, according to Kristin E. Kutac, Chief Operating Officer of American Heritage Communities, Inc., which is developing the community. Due to overwhelming response, The Heritage of Green Hills broke ground months ahead of schedule and plans to begin moving residents in during Fall 2008 -- also months ahead of its announced timeframe. "Today's seniors don't accept the idea that retirement is a time to slow down," Kutac said. "Once this region's retirees learned about the new kind of environment we were creating, they responded enthusiastically." When completed, the gated community will offer hiking trails, exercise facilities, an indoor swimming pool, a salon and a restaurant and tavern, among other amenities. The Heritage of Green Hills will also be distinguished by unique programs. The community is the region's first to offer a 100% Refundable Entrance Fee, which ensures residents that their full entrance fee will be returned to them or to their heirs. In addition, the community has created Well By Design(SM), a program that will help each resident create an individualized wellness plan. Staff specialists will support residents as they focus on keeping a healthy mind, body and spirit. Jeanene Palmer, Director of Community Relations for The Heritage of Green Hills, said the area's existing retirement communities are either near capacity or at full capacity with a waiting list. "Retirees in our area were running out of choices, " Palmer said. "With The Heritage of Green Hills, they can stay close to their roots and enjoy a different approach to retirement living."

ST. LOUIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- When most people think about installing wood floors, they envision a hammer and nails. The reality, however, is that there are several options available for installing wood floors, including nail down, glue down and floating. Nailing down wood floors is the most common installation method. The process involves nailing or stapling the wood flooring directly to a wood subfloor. Typically, the flooring is blind nailed through the tongue into the wooden subfloor so that the nails are not visible after the flooring is installed. This installation method works for both solid and engineered wood floors, but only for wood subfloors. The glue down installation method involves using adhesive to adhere the flooring directly to the subfloor, or to a moisture barrier installed directly over the subfloor. Adhesives work by creating a bond between the subfloor and the wood flooring through a chemical reaction process. While all adhesives work on the same principle of changing chemically from a viscose liquid to a solid, they differ in the carrying agents or catalysts that activate them based on the chemical properties of the adhesive. This installation method is most common with engineered wood floors being installed over concrete slabs. The final wood flooring installation method is floating. With this process, the flooring material is neither nailed nor glued to the subfloor, but floated above it. The flooring material, usually engineered, is either glued or clipped to itself, both tongue to groove, and at end joints. This gives the floor stability, without actually fastening it to the subfloor beneath it. This type of installation is ideal over existing flooring material, such as ceramic or laminates.

PHILADELPHIA, June 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Manufacturers of building insulation now have a "green" alternative to formaldehyde in the production of fiberglass batting. Aquaset(TM) acrylic thermosetting binders from Rohm and Haas enable manufacturers to produce high-quality, cost-effective insulation that is indistinguishable in performance from insulation made using formaldehyde resins. Water-based Aquaset acrylic technology represents a sustainable chemistry that is non-combustible, non-hazardous, recyclable and non-flammable - characteristics earning it a 1-0-0 safety rating from the Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA). Insulation manufacturers using Aquaset binders can dramatically reduce or even eliminate exposure to emissions and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This is because Aquaset binders produce only water during the curing process, in contrast to traditional binders that emit compounds such as formaldehyde, methanol, phenol, and ammonia during cure, and continue to emit formaldehyde during shipping, storage, installation and throughout the product's lifecycle in the home.

The firm was honored with two PCBC Gold Awards and 11 Awards of Merit in various categories IRVINE, Calif., June 13 /PRNewswire/ -- McLarand Vasquez Emsiek & Partners, Inc. (MVE), one of the nation's leading architecture, planning and interior design firms, won top honors at the PCBC Gold Nugget Award Ceremony for the Enclave at Sunrise -- Plan Four, located in Palm Springs, California. The Gold Nugget was awarded to MVE for the project's exceptional design. The winning Plan Four offers impeccable exterior detailing, including elegant private entry courtyards with custom gates, an extensive covered outdoor living area, a designer pool and spa for each home and architectural accents that complement the surrounding desert terrain. The 2007 PCBC judges honored MVE and The Enclave stating that it is "modest and straightforward in plan, yet surprisingly sophisticated in exterior design." They also applauded the use of the front courtyard as "private outdoor space, as well as how all rooms relate to the outdoors. Less is definitely more in this practical yet artistic home." "A combination of The Enclave's quality design and the best value per square foot is resulting in one home sold per week," stated project designer Carl McLarand, AIA. "The intention of the design was to provide flexibility of floor plan and style that seems to be an element to which the market is responding," McLarand added. While home sales in the desert are at a steep decline, the 52 luxury homes at The Enclave continue to sell rapidly at a rate of at least one per week. "We have been able to out perform the competition in our marketplace due to the fact that the buyers, our most critical judges, have recognized the superior design and construction of The Enclave at Sunrise and rewarded us with their purchasing of our homes," states Tom Noya of Bayshore Development. The Enclave is now selling into the third of what will be a five phase project.

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The City of Riverside on Tuesday became the first community in California to provide incentives to builders who utilize the voluntary California Green Builder program as a way to meet the city’s “Clean and Green” requirements, the California Building Industry Association announced today. The Riverside City Council enacted an ordinance officially recognizing the program. The vote was unanimous. Riverside joins a number of other communities, including Palm Springs, Palm Desert and Cathedral City, that have recognized the California Green Builder program as a preferred green homebuilding alternative. In addition, the Imperial Irrigation District provides incentives to builders who utilize the program in its service territory in the Imperial and Coachella valleys. The California Green Builder program (CGB) was developed by CBIA’s technical and research affiliate, the Building Industry Institute, to provide a measurable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective green building program primarily for production home builders. The program provides a number of environmental benefits: * CGB homes are 15 to 20 percent more energy-efficient than the state’s toughest-in-the nation Title 24 energy efficiency standards. * They save at least 20,000 gallons of water a year compared to a typical house. * The builders divert at least half of their construction waste from landfills, helping local jurisdictions meet their state waste diversion mandates. * Wood used in CGB homes is harvested from sustainable forest operations. * And as climate change becomes a bigger issue, a CGB home results in less than half of the carbon dioxide being produced than would be generated during the lifetime of a typical California home. Robert Rivinius, President and CEO of CBIA and the BII, said the program benefits buyers, cities and builders.

BELFAIR, Wash., June 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- When a major financial institution announces that they are going to spend $18 billion on commercial lending and investment banking for 'green' projects as well as an additional $2 billion for consumer programs, you have to take notice. With today's heightened interest in and demand for ecologically sound building materials, metal roofing is an ideal choice. Green building practices promote construction of buildings that are healthier for the occupants and healthier for the environment. The metal roofing industry's products are already environmentally friendly, and are contributing to the reduction of landfill waste and energy consumption. A study conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that the installation of reflective metal roofing can save homeowners up to forty percent in summer cooling costs while highly emissive metal roofs can reduce urban air temperatures by as much as 12 degrees F. A basic unpainted metal roof will reflect much of the solar radiation that would be absorbed by a traditional asphalt roof. However, for homes in warmer climates, pre-painted or granular coated metal roofing systems not only reflect solar energy but they also cool the home by re-emitting most of the solar energy that is absorbed. The EPA reports that $40 billion is spent annually in the United States to cool buildings. This accounts for one-sixth of all electricity generated in a year. Ninety percent of the energy in the United States is generated by burning fossil fuels, which create pollution. In addition to being energy efficient, metal roofing is recognized as a sustainable building material for several environmental reasons. Many metal roofs typically have a minimum of 25 percent recycled content. This level of recycled content allows metal roofing to be routinely included on listings for 'green' and recycled content products. In addition, metal roofing is 100 percent recyclable where other roofing materials are routinely removed and disposed of by the ton in landfills. Along with providing superior environmentally friendly protection, a metal roof also increases a home's resale value. The 2005 Residential Cost Handbook(TM) reports the appraised value of a home increases by $1.35 per square foot when a metal roof is installed.

MINNETONKA, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH) has begun construction on a new environmentally responsible 10-story building adjacent to its headquarters in Minnetonka. The new facility, planned for completion in 2008, reflects UnitedHealth Group’s commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and is slated to be among the first LEED-certified buildings in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. LEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System – is the most respected and widely used environmental standard for commercial buildings and a nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of environmentally responsible architecture. Buildings are one of the greatest contributors to global climate change and, according to the American Institute of Architects, produce approximately one-third of carbon dioxide emissions. “Improving a building’s energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways a company can reduce its utility costs and help curb greenhouse gas emissions. With our new ‘green’ facility, UnitedHealth Group will not only minimize our company’s carbon footprint but also help promote energy-efficient architecture in the Twin Cities. This type of common-sense approach we believe is an important step that will help us address the challenge of global warming,” said Lois Quam, president of UnitedHealth Group’s Public and Senior Markets Group. “This project is a logical extension of our energy-efficient approach to design and construction,” said Robert Oberrender, UnitedHealth Group senior vice president and treasurer and the executive responsible for real estate operations. “Reducing our energy dependence companywide is an important goal for UnitedHealth Group; today, 13 UNH facilities already qualify for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star rating. The new ‘green’ building continues that effort and reinforces our commitment to environmental sustainability.” The LEED rating system was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. Approximately 20 percent of government buildings are constructed by LEED standards, but only 5 percent of commercial buildings are currently LEED-certified. While a number of companies have recently sought LEED certification, there are currently only six LEED-certified buildings in Minnesota. “Green-building makes sense from both a corporate and environmental perspective. It lowers energy costs and creates a more healthful and productive work environment. As a health care company, UnitedHealth Group takes a particular interest in innovations – health-related or otherwise – that promote health and well-being,” Quam added. According to the USGBC, ‘green’ buildings, on average, use 30-percent less energy than conventional buildings. Studies show that improved indoor environments can increase employee productivity by up to 16 percent. The EPA estimates building-related illnesses account for $60 billion of annual productivity lost each year.

WASHINGTON, June 11 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Thanks to an extension earlier this year of federal tax incentives, home builders and commercial building owners can lower both the energy costs of their buildings for years to come and their federal tax liability through 2008 by incorporating energy efficiency in their properties. Tax breaks also are available for energy- saving improvements to existing commercial buildings through 2008; to manufacturers of high-efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, and dishwashers produced this year; and to business purchasers of certain hybrid vehicles. Full details are spelled out at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.energytaxincentives.org/, a website developed by the Alliance to Save Energy and other energy-efficiency organizations.

ATLANTA, June 11 /PRNewswire/ -- As NeoCon World's Trade Fair 2007 welcomes over 50,000 design professionals this week in Chicago, GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) announces that the 100th product manufacturer has joined the GREENGUARD Product Certification Program. The timing of these two significant events is not accidental; more than 40 participating manufacturers are exhibiting GREENGUARD Certified products and GEI is presenting its continuing education program at the show. These events reinforce the interior design community's demand for products that sustain the environment and protect human health.

KMD Architects' 'green' design for Public Utilities Commission headquarters set to exceed LEED Platinum, go off grid and minimize carbon footprint. SAN FRANCISCO, June 8 /PRNewswire/ -- KMD Architects' design for a new 12-story headquarters for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission is expected to be a leader in demonstrating energy efficiency, water recycling and reduced carbon footprint among major office buildings nationally, according to P.U.C. officials. "What better organization than a major municipal power and water agency to create one of the most advanced buildings in green design in the U.S.," said David Hobstetter, KMD principal. "Our intent from the beginning was to create the most energy-efficient office building developed in an urban setting in the United Statesto date," said P.U.C. deputy general manager Anthony Irons. The $178 million, 254,000-square foot headquarters will include features uncommon in buildings today, but "would be commonplace in years to come," he said. Officials say construction will be paid by selling surplus real estate holdings and by issuing bonds against future rent savings, not by funds from rate-paying customers. Dozens of wind turbines on the roof, solar panels embedded in outer walls, and a natural-cooling "thermal chimney" are among the features enabling the structure to supply 40 percent of its own energy needs, said Hobstetter. On windy, sunlit days, it will go off the power grid completely. "The SF PUC headquarters is the type of well-proportioned, elegant project that reveals the next wave of thinking by designers and planners in which the building is seen as a component of its natural setting. The possibilities for innovation are limitless; just think of a city that regenerates rather than depletes its natural resources," said Lisa Sullivan, Director of Publications, "Places: Forum of Design for the Public Realm", a journal sponsored by a consortium of design schools including U.C.-Berkeley, the Pratt Institute and M.I.T. Planned to break ground at 525 Golden Gate Ave. near City Hall in 2008, the P.U.C. headquarters also employs advanced water-saving and water- recycling. Faucet sensors, waterless urinals, and on-demand water heaters will cut use to 5 gallons per occupant per day, compared to average office-building use of 25 gallons a day. A grey-water wastewater recycling system enables reuse of water from faucets and sinks in the building's toilets and the cooling system. While water and power efficiencies were the P.U.C's primary goals, the new headquarters will also employ leading-edge design concepts in enhancing human performance, said Hobstetter. "Dozens of research studies have confirmed the benefits of natural daylight and views of greenspace in improving a person's productivity, reducing absenteeism and improving health and well-being," said Hobstetter. "By utilizing sun-filtering shades, new window-glazing materials and other techniques, we were able to bring sunlight well inside the structure's interior work spaces." "Energy efficiency is one thing, it can be accomplished with smart technology; it is easily measured," said Ryan Stevens Design Principal at KMD. "We want to go one step further and provide a work space that will contribute to preserving the environment, foster interaction, creativity and productivity and also inspire the community." The building is designed to exceed LEEDs-Platinum, and will exceed California's recently-instituted Title 24 requirements for energy efficiency in new office buildings by 60 percent, he concluded.

PORTLAND, Ore., June 7 /PRNewswire/ -- California designers, cabinet makers and builders are facing a new challenge, following unanimous ruling by California's Air Resources Board (CARB) to significantly reduce formaldehyde levels in panelized building products. Neil Kelly Cabinets, a long-time Oregon manufacturer of environmentally- friendly cabinets meets the new CARB regulations today, due to its no-added formaldehyde cabinet components. On April 26, CARB approved the world's most sweeping restriction on emissions of formaldehyde, a cancer-causing chemical found in kitchen cabinets, shelving, countertops and ready-to-assemble furniture. The regulation would phase in over three years, beginning in 2009. The regulations would cut by nearly 60 percent the amount of formaldehyde emissions that seep into the air from the resin or glue most commonly used to bond plywood, particleboard and medium-density fiberboard. The new standard applies to all products sold, used or manufactured for sale in California, both domestic and imported. Neil Kelly Cabinets has been manufacturing cabinets in Portland, Oregon since 1966 and in 1998 introduced their Naturals Collection, featuring no added formaldehyde agri-board panels, binders and glues, FSC certified wood veneers, and low VOC finishes, according to Rick Fields, company president. "Our cabinet collection is now fully compliant with these new regulations," Fields noted. "Our California dealers are ahead of the curve by offering healthy, high quality cabinets in a range of styles, that meet these CARB regulations right now." Neil Kelly cabinets have found their way into hundreds of high end remodeling and new building projects in the past ten years, primarily in the western states, including California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and Montana. The company's cabinets possess positive environmental qualities through the use of formaldehyde-free PureBond(TM) panel products, manufactured by Portland-based Columbia Forest Products. The proprietary soy flour-based binders in both panels ... and in Neil Kelly cabinets ... resulted from research by Oregon State University, where scientists, through biomimicry, developed natural binders based on their experience with shellfish. "The real winners are California homeowners and trade partners who now have a healthier alternative in fine cabinetry that offers higher indoor air quality and lower health risks by immediately meeting these new CARB regulations."

BobVila.com to Honor Stories of Fathers Working with their Children BOSTON, June 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Bob Vila, the home-improvement expert, got his start working side by side with his dad, building the family's home in Miami. In honor of Father's Day, June 17, BobVila.com is looking for other people's favorite stories about their dads, too. "We know that people of all ages have enjoyed learning from and working with their dads on all kinds of projects -- hammering, sawing, building, remodeling or, even, mowing the lawn. Plus, we know that many of them were inspired by Bob Vila," said Melissa Marchand, chief operating officer of BobVila.com. "With Father's Day approaching, we want to give everyone the chance to honor Dad -- by posting their favorites stories and photos at BobVila.com." In addition to posting the stories and photos that are submitted, BobVila.com will be selecting, from those submissions, three top winners of cash prizes: $1,000 - first prize, $500 - second prize and $250 - third prize. Entries must be posted by midnight on June 17. "We'll be judging on creativity and heart," said Marchand, "with no points off for drips, chips or out-of-plumb projects." BobVila.com is a Boston-based Web business that provides advice and information regarding building and renovation projects and products -- featuring Bob Vila's library of 17 years of syndicated programming, a new online series of individual how-to projects and, now the extensive new line of Bob Vila tools.

WASHINGTON, June 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A new survey of local home building associations reveals that more than 97,000 homes have been built and certified by voluntary, builder-supported green building programs around the country since the mid-1990s, according to the National Association of Home Builders. That's more than a 50 percent increase from the last survey of green homes: In 2004, the National Association of Home Builders Research Center counted 61,000 green homes in the United States. "This astounding number is yet another indication that market-driven programs, not mandates, are the best way to encourage the growth of green building," said NAHB President Brian Catalde, a Southern California home builder. "The home building industry is leading efforts to make homes more energy- and resource-efficient." NAHB has been encouraging these efforts over the years by providing builder education, and in 2004 published Model Green Home Building Guidelines to help its local associations establish their own climate-specific, market- appropriate programs. In 2007, NAHB announced that, to further promote industry advances, it would create an American National Standards Institute- accredited residential green building standard, slated to be completed early next year. The success of voluntary green building programs around the country speaks to the industry's commitment to reducing the operating costs of homes, conserving water and energy, improving resource-efficiency and minimizing construction waste. NAHB is collaborating with the International Codes Council to develop the green building standard, which will bring uniformity to sustainable building. The standard will serve as a baseline for green building programs without abandoning the proven principle that voluntary, region- specific, flexible programs can be truly green and also allow for innovation. "The success of these regional programs is something that's very important to keep in mind as the residential green building standard comes closer to completion," Catalde said. "The new standard won't replace these programs, but it will provide builders all over the country with common ground -- a green baseline that everyone can agree on."

Company offers its plans in PDF format, thereby reducing its paper consumption by 9 tons by 2020 DRUMMONDVILLE, QC, June 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Drummond Designs Inc, a major player on the North American residential architecture market, is pleased to announce the launch of its new "Option Green" initiative. Drummond Designs currently uses more than 1.3 million square feet of paper to produce more than 6,000 plans. It is hoping to gradually reduce its paper consumption by providing a growing number of its customers with the option of receiving an electronic (PDF) version of the plan they order. Based on a projected minimum 5% increase in its sales over the next several years, Drummond Designs would be using a cumulative 98 metric tonnes of paper by 2020. The company has thus set an objective to trim its use of paper by 10%, which would result in a 9-tonne reduction over this span. Correspondingly, the "Option Green" initiative should result in 500 fewer courier deliveries of plans, thereby helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There are a number of advantages to opting for an electronic version of a Drummond Designs' plan. Clients, entrepreneurs and municipalities will collectively be helping accelerate the approval process and the obtaining of permits while being assured of copyright protection, since the plan will be coming directly from Drummond Designs. This method will also speed up the redistribution of plans to the various construction-trade services. The reduction of paper plans will, additionally, be a major plus for municipalities from an archives-space standpoint. This addresses a need that has been expressed by a growing number of municipalities. "Improving the quality of our environment rests on our ability to collectively think of new ways to do things better," stated Drummond Designs CEO Yves Carignan. "The solution to the challenges with which we are confronted usually emanates from concepts that are easily applied and deliver a wide array of advantages."

National Pest Management Association Offers Tips to Protect Homes from the Danger of Termite Damage FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As summer begins and the temperature rises across the country, homeowners should be attentive to termite pressure – a potential problem that can impact their single greatest investment. As termites can feed on wood, sheetrock, wallpaper and fabric, an infestation can possibly affect the structural dependability of one’s home. “Termites cause over $5 billion in property damage every year,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “Warm weather combined with the increased moisture, which we experience in summer months, may increase termite pressure. Although termites do not pose as health threat like mosquitoes, ticks and rodents, they do pose a threat to your home. Summer is a perfect time to both inspect your property for these hard to detect pests and take proactive steps to try to prevent infestations.” NPMA experts offer these tips to help homeowners prevent termite infestations: * Avoid any moisture at the foundation of your home. * Divert water away from your property through properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. * Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. * Prevent shrubs, vines and other vegetation from becoming overgrown and covering vents. * Remove old form boards and grade stakes, which may have been left behind after a home was constructed. * Eliminate any wood that comes into contact with the soil; maintain an 18-inch gap between soil and any wood. * Routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of termite damage. “Just as parents wouldn’t prescribe medicine for their children, homeowners shouldn’t attempt to remedy a termite infestation in their own home,” advises Mannes. “If you suspect termites in your home, contact a licensed pest professional whose expertise and technology can best rid your home of these unwanted pests and prevent future infestations.”

U.S. Concrete and Its Operating Companies Reduced Potential Carbon Dioxide Emissions by 328,000 Tons in 2006 Through Green Technology Commitment HOUSTON, June 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- U.S. Concrete (NASDAQ:RMIX) , one of the nation's leading producers of ready-mix concrete, announced today its company-wide commitment to environmentally friendly technologies that will reduce potential carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by hundreds of thousands of tons annually. U.S. Concrete is the first national ready-mix concrete company to announce such a company-wide commitment in the United States. The company formalized its position today with the introduction of its EF Technology(TM) through which it substantially replaces traditional Portland cement with reclaimed fly ash and/or slag (left over material from coal-fired industrial plants or iron mills, respectively) and produces an environmentally superior and sustainable alternative to traditional Portland cement concrete. The company's use of EF Technology resulted in a reduction of 328,000 tons of potential CO2 emissions in its operations during 2006. "Our commitment to EF Technology is a triple win: for our customers, for product quality and for the environment," said Michael W. Harlan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Houston-based U.S. Concrete. "It is quite gratifying that this idea emanated as a grassroots effort from our professionals in the field. Our people are passionate about the fact that EF Technology produces a higher quality product for our customers, while significantly reducing environmental impact." EF Technology's Environmental Benefits Reduces Greenhouse Gases Portland cement, the component that binds concrete, accounts for 6-8% of human generated CO2 in the environment. Substantial replacement of Portland cement with reclaimed fly ash or slag dramatically reduces the greenhouse gases associated with concrete production. U.S. Concrete and its operating companies reduced potential CO2 emissions in 2006 by over 328,000 tons through use of this technology. Reduces Landfill Space Consumption EF Technology's beneficial reuse of fly ash and slag reduces the impact on landfill space. Over 40 million tons of this material clogs the country's landfills each year .Use of EF Technology not only reduces air emissions, but also reduces the impact of landfill disposal of fly ash. Reduces Raw Material Consumption In addition to other environmental benefits, use of EF Technology reduces the demand for mined natural resources needed to produce traditional Portland cement. EF Technology saves between 100 and 300 pounds of mined natural resources for each cubic yard of concrete produced. EF Technology's Product Quality & Customer Benefits Produces highly durable product EF Technology using high fly ash and or slag produces less bleeding and product shrinkage over traditional concrete mixes. Replacing up to 50% of traditional Portland cement improves concrete strength by increasing the product's chemical resistance and durability. Slower hydration rates and lower heat of hydration improves the integrity of mass concrete structures like large foundations, bridges and other structures. Produces LEED credits for certain construction projects Use of EF Technology concrete products can assist in qualifying for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits. The United States Green Building Council established the LEED program to rate a building or structure's environmental performance. EF Technology product attributes qualify for credits under this program, positively impacting a building's environmental performance rating.

New finer-grained ceramic substrate material boasts 20% increase in flexural strength and other benefits over traditional materials. GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., June 1 /PRNewswire/ -- CoorsTek, a large technical ceramics manufacturer and long-time provider of electronic components, today introduced its new DuraStrate thick-film ceramic substrates. Developed specifically for improved performance in thick-film substrates, this new material offers significant performance advantages over standard, widely-available ceramic substrates. Specifically, CoorsTek is employing a finer-grain (1.5 to 2.0 micron) microstructure material -- chiefly responsible for a 20% increase in biaxial flexural strength over traditional materials, improved thick-film performance, consistent thicknesses, improved camber flatness, and better aged adhesion. This enhanced durability should translate to improved process yields, longer product life, and superior reliability. CoorsTek currently offers the DuraState ceramic for only the very thin (10-15 mil) varieties of thick-film substrates.

Help prevent hurricane damage and danger by making key choices when building a home The official start of the 2007 Hurricane Season begins on June 1, but just because tomorrow kicks off the season doesn't mean it's too late to learn to how protect one of your largest investments: your home. Homeowners can strengthen the exterior of their homes to prevent wind-born debris from tearing apart the structure of a home through better choices in the new construction phase. Walls built with insulated concrete forms (ICFs) -- permanent foam forms or panels used to hold concrete in place -- provide homeowners with sustainable structures capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. "ICFs are easier to clean up after hurricane weather or flooding, and provide the homeowner with moisture resistance in the walls themselves, when combined with appropriate interior finishes." says Dr. Ronald Zollo, professor of civil and architectural engineering at the University of Miami and a licensed professional engineer. "While ICFs meets some of the United State's most strict building codes and is up to nine times stronger than traditional wood frames, it's not just for hurricane protection," says Jeff Van Sloun, business leader, Fold-Form(R) Insulation. "We're seeing a dramatic increase in consumer demand throughout the entire United States for building products that are greener, offer greater energy efficiencies, air and moisture management and contribute to greater comfort levels by reducing noise in the home."