Green Builder Program First in the State

Green Builder Program First in the State
    The Green Builder program of the Home Builders Association of Central New Mexico was the third green builder program in the country and the first in the state of New Mexico.
    Designed to promote environmentally friendly building practices, the program was launched in August 1997 with ten builder members. Today, the program has 45 builder members and has certified more than 1,200 homes.

Avalon Subdivision of Artistic Homes, Inc.
    Regarded as one of the nation's leading green programs, the Green Builder program has received recognition from the National Association of Home Builders, the National Association of Home Builders Research Center, the National Renewable Energy Lab, the Department of Energy and the State of New Mexico Department of Energy and Natural Resources.
    The program is unique in its tiered Star Levels - homes are awarded a rating of one to four stars depending on the number of green features.
    The program focuses on four areas: Energy Conservation, Materials Conservation, Water Conservation and Recycling and Waste Reduction.
    Criteria for green homes falls under these four categories and is assigned a point value, ranging from one to four points per feature. Builders submit applications for certification for each home, the number of points determines the star level: 20 points for One-Star, 30 points for Two, 40 points for Three and 50 or more points for a Four-Star Home. Each home that is certified is assigned a unique number which is engraved on a ceramic tile which may be added to the structure of the house or simply displayed in the home. Future owners may use their home's certification number to trace what green features are incorporated into the home.
    Criteria includes such things as type of insulation, low-e windows, energy efficient appliances, low water use plumbing and landscaping, as well as the types of materials used in the construction process. For example, steel framing or engineered lumber. Points also are awarded for the reduction and recycling of construction waste. Builders are required to recycle all of their on-site framing lumber or steel. Installation of recycling centers in the home to encourage homeowners to recycle also earn points.
    In addition to knowing you've done the right thing for the environment, owners of green homes can also experience a savings in their energy and water bills - something we all enjoy. Licensed green builders build homes for all tastes and budgets - whether you're a first-time home buyer or looking to build your dream home - a green builder can make your dream come true.
    For more information about the Green Builder program call the Home Builders Association of Central New Mexico at
505-344-3294 or visit their Web site: www.hbacnm.com

Home Builders Ass. of Central New Mexico