News & Info to Share

Over the years we have been told that it would be useful to have a database of individual products that have significant sustainability attributes.  Given the scope of products and the pace of change, such an effort has always been a bit intimidating.  Nevertheless, we are jumping in with the spirit of the old saying:

 

 “HOW DO YOU EAT AN ELEPHANT?  ONE BITE AT A TIME.”

 

The Individual Product database is literally starting from nothing but will be growing steadily.  There will be objective minimums for inclusion in the database, as well as subjective input from our team and other respected design professionals we work with. The input of manufacturers or sales reps will not be factored in; and there is no industry sponsorship or payment of any kind. 

Experts Corner

When trying to obtain the REGIONAL MATERIALS credit we are all used to thinking in the terms of 500 Miles.  However, LEED allows for a "weighted average" to be used if alterative methods of shipping are utilized.  The formula is as follows:

Transport by Rail : Divide the total distance by 3

Transport by Inland Waterway : Divide the total distanceby 2

Transport by Sea : Divide the total distance by 15

So... if you have product that you would love to use, but it is outside the 500 mile radius; see if you can coordinate deliery via rail by communicating with the vendor.  Depending on the product, this might be their standard method anyway.

 

 

 

 

Altro, a major resilient flooring manufacturer in the healthcare and education markets has just announced that it is removing biocides and antimcrobials from its products.