Feature

The Product Transparency Movement: Peeking Behind the Corporate Veil

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Manufacturers are offering more product information than ever, but how can we know what to trust?

What's Happening

Report: For Better Buildings, We Need Better Data
With CBECS fading, where can we turn for reliable building performance data?

Passive House Group Bans Certain Spray-Foam Insulation
Passive House U.S. will no longer certify projects using spray-foam with high global warming potential.

Air Dryer Claims Lower Impact Than Paper Towels
If you thought paper towels were a better option than the hand dryer, think again.

Newsbriefs

LEED for Existing Buildings Outpacing New Construction
Obama Announces $4 Billion Retrofit Investment
EPA: Less Lead in Air, But Still a Danger to Millions
Air Pollution May Cause More Severe Precipitation
IFMA Launches Online Benchmarking Exchange
Solar Modules Power Solar Manufacturing in Nevada
First National Standard for Graywater Systems
Walk Score Tool Now Measures Actual Pedestrian Routes
Stain-Resistant Chemicals May Contribute to ADHD
Battery Companies Fully Charged After Merger
Survey Shows Majority Aware of Incandescent Phase-Out

 

Product Review

Prize-Winning LED Outdoor Area Light

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EvoLucia’s SCH cobra head uses the company’s “Aimed Optics” technology to direct light from the LEDs onto an even pattern on the ground, maximizing the efficacy of the light.

BioPCM: Finally, a Low-Cost, Practical Phase-Change Material
A sea change for phase-change materials? BioPCM brings phase change into the 21st century with biobased mats.

BackPage Primer

Sharing the Skyline with Birds
Buildings are major killers of birds, but thoughtful design can help.