Environmental Building News
Volume 11, Number 3 — March 2002

Feature

Life-Cycle Assessment for Buildings: Seeking the Holy Grail

image from article
The day may be coming when building materials at the supply yard will have labels listing each product's contribution to global warming, ozone depletion, habitat loss, and other environmental problems. It's not quite that easy yet, but there are several new life-cycle assessment tools that building professionals can use to compare the impacts of various products--if they know a little about the opportunities and potential pitfalls.

From the Editors

CCA Phaseout: Now the Hard Part Begins
CCA-treated lumber, the most toxic type of preserved wood, is headed for phaseout. But how will we dispose of all the lumber already in use?

In Memoriam: Don Prowler, FAIA
Solar energy pioneer, sustainability advocate, architect, and teacher Don Prowler has died of kidney cancer.

Letters

On Radiant-Floor Heating (2 letters)
Two letters taking critical looks at the conventional wisdom of radiant heating.

What's Happening

Agreement Reached on CCA Phaseout
The EPA and the treated wood industry have finalized an agreement for the phaseout of CCA-treated wood in most applications. California may adopt a much more comprehensive law.

 

What's Happening (cont.)

Wood-Plastic Composite Lumber Taking Off
As sales of wood-plastic composite products skyrocket, manufacturers are boosting production and introducing new product lines.

Product Review

Temple-Inland Offers FSC-Certified MDF
Medium density fiberboard certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is available in certain regions from Temple-Inland.

Collins Introduces FSC-Certified TruWood Siding
Some styles in Collins' hardboard siding are becoming available with FSC-certified wood fiber.

Product News

Johns Manville to Eliminate Use of Formaldehyde

image from article
A major manufacturer leads the industry in creating safer fiberglass insulation.

From the Library

Calendar

Calendar of Events