ABC Launches a new Green Website focused on ABC's commitment to sustainability and the green building industry.
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has been at the forefront of the green building movement since its inception. ABC member SIGAL Construction was a green building pioneer during the 1980’s. In 1991, SIGAL Construction started SIGAL Environment and began incorporating environmentally preferable methods and materials into new construction projects. It was through this sustainable design and practice SIGAL Environment went on to become a founding member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). In addition, SIGAL was one of the authors of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. ABC members continue leading the construction industry by utilizing sustainable construction methods and practices. ABC understands that more thoughtful and environmentally responsible construction is an important step in ensuring that we leave a softer footprint on the landscape for future generations.
ABC strongly advocates the merit shop construction philosophy, which encourages open competition and a free-market approach to awarding construction contracts. ABC believes that all contractors should have the opportunity to compete openly and fairly for green projects. Requirements that restrict the ability of merit shop contractors to bid on green projects unnecessarily limit competition and do not offer any benefit to the end users – the general public. Construction contracts should be based on merit and awarded to the most qualified and responsible low bidders, regardless of labor affiliation.
ABC Launches Green Contractor Certification Program
ABC launched its Green Contractor Certification program to document the efforts of merit shop construction firms that are developing a sustainable workplace environment and to recognize those ABC members that are leaders in the green industry. Read MoreABC has partnered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to offer half-day and full day workshops at ABC's national conferences. Workshops will teach attendees awareness, understanding and implementation of green building principles and the LEED Rating System.
The U.S. Green Building Council offers the following online courses for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED):
- Essentials of LEED Professional Accreditation LEED 101:
- Green Building Basics
- Introduction to LEED for Schools
Visit the USGBC’s site for information on course content, pricing and registration links: www.usgbc.org
Green Advantage Environmental Certification Contractors can become certified green building practitioners by testing their knowledge of green construction concepts, technologies and techniques through this nationally recognized program. For more information on obtaining Green Advantage certification, visit: www.greenadvantage.org