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ASID and USGBC Launch Green Residential Platform

The program targets both building professionals and homeowners.

Nicholas Tamarin -- Interior Design, 12/3/2007 12:00:00 AM

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Foundation and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) have teamed up to release the first nationwide green residential remodeling guidelines, the Regreen Program. The guidelines will be comprised of the best practices using a "whole-house" approach and will be supplemented by learning programs and electronic resources for both building professionals and homeowners.

A first draft of the guidelines was released at the USGBC's Greenbuild International Conference and Expo in Chicago in November. The draft is available for public comment online until December 10. The final guidelines will be released at the ASID Conference on Design: Interiors 08 in New Orleans next March.

"We have the ability to effect major change through existing homes," says Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO, and founding chair of the USGBC. "Making our homes more energy efficient, resource friendly, healthier and safer for the families who live in them is something we can do now; and it is something that everyone deserves."

Online, Regreen will cover sustainable remodeling topics targeted to building professionals while consumers will be directed to the USGBC's consumer Web site for green home renovation tips and resources. Plans are in the works for more Web-based offerings, as well as instructor-led seminars at regional home shows.

"Awareness of earth-minded initiatives is increasing exponentially and the guidelines fulfill a need within the design industry and among consumers," says Michael Alin, ASID executive director.