NIST Building Software Offers Green Product Advice

Where can I get reused/salvaged building products?

The Sustainable Building Centre does not keep information on costs, generally speaking. We prefer to give you information about what your options are for purchasing a product (and for this, start here). Costs change all the time, and depend on many conditions: the size of the project, the location, the cost of labour, the costs of materials. Having said all that, costs for green roofs are even more complicated than many building costs. However, we get this question enough that we have gone to the experts: those at BCIT's Centre for the Advancement of Green Roof Technology. And this is what they have told us.

With the explosive growth in green building, new environmental building programs and sustainable construction guidelines are popping up everywhere. The current labeling systems are indeed included in many of the guidelines and specifications as a resource or referenced standard for sustainable design and construction. Thus allowing consumers, architects, design teams, engineers and LEED consultants the opportunity to find product that works within each criteria needed with the rating systems. Today, governments at all levels – private sector, federal, provinces, counties and municipal – are seeking to incorporate environmental considerations into their activities. They want a healthier environment for their citizens and employees. They need to lower costs, including life-cycle costs. And they often have mandates or policies to be green. Review of the life-cycle analysis of product and defining the environmental standards helps prevent green washing issues or false representation.  See the file below for more information.

We are delighted to announce that the Sustainable Building Centre now has a green wall, donated by ELT Easy Green Living Wall Systems, with plants generously provided by Linnaea Nurseries and Nats Nursery.

Renovating?
Ripping out old stuff?
Looking for recycling options?
Want to buy gently used, "character" products?