More homes are about to be built green, thanks to a new
initiative unveiled by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
The recently launched NAHB
National Green Building Standard gives builders for the first
time an online, points-based certification tool that moves the practice of
building sustainable homes into the mainstream. As a result, more builders will
be looking for eco-friendly products ranging from energy efficient appliances
to low-flow faucets.
That presents an opportunity for suppliers like cabinet
manufacturers. While the NAHB’s program is similar to other green building
rules when it comes to wood usage, many industry experts think the low-cost
certification system will significantly increase the number of builders
specifying cabinetry that meets the initiative’s guidelines.
“Awareness and accessibility are significantly
improved with the new NAHB program,” said Roger Rutan, vice president at Timber
Products Co., a supplier of environmentally friendly hardwood plywood to the
kitchen cabinet industry. “Green building is becoming more conventional and
easier for builders, so cabinet companies should expect their clients to call
with new needs for sustainable products.”
