GreenPro 97

Building products database on CD-ROM for Windows™. The Associa-tion for Environment Conscious Build-ing, Nant-y-Garreg, Saron, Llandysul, Carmarthenshire, SA44 5EJ, UK; 01559 370908 (phone), buildgreen@ aol.com (e-mail). Requires Windows 3.1 or later, 8 MB RAM. £31.50 postpaid (about $19.50).

This green building products database from the U.K. is similar in concept to American versions. It has some neat features not found in other databases we’ve reviewed, such as autodial (if you’re in the U.K., you can have your computer dial the company’s phone number) and “Print Enquiry,” which automatically prints out a letter you can send (or have the program fax directly) to the manufacturer. The online help system helps negotiate all these features. Some of the products have fairly detailed descriptions and technical details, while other listings are quite sketchy. While some of the products are European versions of American products (such as Owens-Corning fiberglass insulation), others are British and continental products that are not yet available in the U.S. So, if you’re looking to learn about European products, or to find a new product to import to the American market, this database may be a great place to start.