Green Remodeling and product certification

A question a lot of people have that are thinking about taking a Green approach to their remodeling or building project is, "How do I know if a product is really green?"

Luckily there are a number of independent certification programs that are related to the green building industry.

Here are some of the most recognized programs:

Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label:
A testing and labeling program for low emitting carpet, underlayment, adhesives and vacuum cleaners
http://www.carpet-rug.org/index.cfm

Energy Star:

a labeling program for enegry efficient homes, building products and appliance
http://www.energystar.gov/

Forest Stewardship Council:
a certification program for wood products that come from forests that are managed in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable way.
http://www.fscus.org/

Greenguard:
an independent testing and labeling program for low emitting furniture and finish materials

Greenseal:
A life cycle's assesment based labeling program for building products and green operations and maintenance procedures
http://www.greenseal.org/

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED):
A certification program for buildings that achieve performance targets in the five green building categories
http://www.usgbc.org/

Scientific Certification Systems:
Independentlyu certifies that products meet the EPA's environmentally preferable standards for federal government purchases;also certifies manufacturers specific claims on product content and emissions levels
http://www.scscertified.com/

Brian Heltzel
Putting On The Fix Remodeling
Burleson, TX
www.puttingonthefix.com