by Andrés Edwards

Now, more than ever, homeowners and builders are getting serious about choosing sustainable building materials for their next remodel or construction project. Yet their interest may exceed the availability of information. A common question from people interested in "green" materials is: "Where can I find out about them?"

Answers to this and other questions related to green building are now publicly available for residents of Marin County, California. The Marin County Community Development Agency (CDA) has commissioned "Green Building Resource," a two-kiosk educational display.

In the spring of 2002, EduTracks, an exhibit design firm specializing in sustainability topics, completed its first model of the Green Building Resource.

The primary objective of the displays is to educate builders, architects, and homeowners about sustainable building practices and environmentally friendly building materials. The target audience is primarily the residential market with some information applicable to the commercial sector.

To effectively reach their intended audience, the displays are housed next to Marin County's building permit offices. In addition, they will travel to other permit offices throughout the county and to conferences, workshops, and public events such as the annual county fair.   >>>

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The two green-building resource displays: GreenSpec Directory (left) and Green Building Materials (right). Materials used for building the displays include a sunflower seed hull biocomposite. Photo: Andrés Edwards The role of windows in energy conservation is taught through text and graphics. Image: Todd Foreman, Public Design   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.