The ClimateMaster ground-source heat pump is recognized by the GreenSpec directory as a green product.

The myth that plants will clean the air is a seductive one: if true, we could fix indoor air quality problems without expensive changes to mechanical systems and without worrying about what materials we introduce to the indoor environment.

(For those who might feel that the Climate Denial Crock of the Week post needs some balance.)

Peter Sinclair is a graphic artist, illustrator, animator, and environmental awareness advocate. He's been posting a series of "Climate Denial Crock of the Week" videos on the internet.

An air-source heat pump is like a window air conditioner: Running one way, it cools, running the other, it heats. When outside air is cold enough, electric resistance heaters kick in. Most air source heat pumps work better in moderate climates than cold ones, although there are specialized models for cold areas.

EBN reported last October on a California law requiring annual energy-use reporting for all nonresidential buildings. (Commercial owners will have to disclose energy use starting in 2010.) How far behind is a national law?

"The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released the first-ever nationwide report this morning on the level of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) found in U.S. coastal areas and the Great Lakes. The report contradicts earlier surveys that suggested PBDEs, chemicals commonly used as flame retardants in commercial goods since the 1970s but in large part discontinued because of health concerns, were found in only a few U.S.

You're aware of the major changes that are coming to the LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) system. If you pass the exam now, you come on board through the older, more familiar system that doesn't require actual LEED project experience.

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Occasionally I wonder if I have some sort of masochistic streak--somehow enjoying the grief I get when bursting people's favorite bubbles. I'll brace myself for such a response to this column, when I point out why radiant-floor heating systems don't make sense for new, energy-efficient houses.

Randolph Place is a 50-unit senior housing community in the heart of Randolph, a historic Richmond neighborhood. The building, constructed in 1896 and added onto in 1946, was originally a neighborhood public school. Several current residents attended school in the building where they now live. After several years of vacancy the building was converted from a school into senior housing in 1986.

I get a lot of questions about energy--from relatives, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. I think the most common question is about thermostats and whether it makes sense to lower the temperature of your house at night or when you aren't home.

"Doesn't it take more energy to warm the house back up," some ask?

"Do setback or programmable thermostats really save energy?"

The Cannon Beach Residence is located along the northern Oregon coast, with excellent orientation to the south for daylighting and views of the ocean.