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I'm designing a very small project for a client—a pantry with new tile flooring, millwork, a sink and a few new appliances. I'd like to take this opportunity to begin to learn about making green product choices. Where do I start?

You've come to the right place! We'll start by identifying your environmental priorities, and then identify the green resources to help you complete your first eco-friendly project.

Penny Bonda -- Interior Design, 10/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

You've already begun just by asking the question. Next step is to identify the environmental concerns you feel it's important to address—buying locally, low emissions, waste reduction, recycled content, low energy and water use—are some examples. Learn about them by reading the myriad of books and articles published on the subject and blatantly self promoted here!

Early in your exploration you're going to want to check out BuildingGreen, my most oft-recommended resource. In the Green Products section you'll find listings of all the materials you're using in your project and more. Click on any category to see the products that have been vetted by the editors and identified as environmentally preferable. Each manufacturers listing will provide information on what makes this product green as well as a link to its website. It will also identify the correct CSI division and LEED credit(s) if applicable.

The Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) will help you learn how to write green specifications. Though intended as a guide for federal government procurement, it provides specifier's language for incorporating green product attributes such as those mentioned above. WBDG will also be instructive in helping you evaluate products, pointing you for example, to the appropriate referenced standards and certifications for low VOC emissions and other attributes.

Speaking of the Feds, another great resource, especially for those appliances you'll be selecting, is Energy Star. The EPA's Energy Star voluntary labeling program evaluates and rates the energy use of more than 50 different categories of products. A quick search of its database will show you that Bosch and Asko have the most energy efficient dishwashers, significantly simplifying your search.

Good luck with greening your project. I hope it's the first of many.