Association Launches Green Remodeling Certification Program

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has announced the launch of its Green Remodeling Certification this fall.

The certification program offers remodeling contractors across the country the opportunity to incorporate cost-saving and sustainable practices into their clients’ homes.

Remodeling can generate some 136 million tons of construction debris per year, according to the EPA. Green remodeling focuses on reducing this material and reusing material whenever possible, as 85 to 90 percent of materials thrown out can be recycled.

Home improvement contractors can recycle a number of items at jobsites, including lumber, sheetrock and metal, as well as cardboard, cans and bottles, according to Chris Donatelli, chair of the NARI’s Green Education Subcommittee. Other recyclable remodeling products include plastic, glass, batteries and some cabinets, doors, windows and roofs. Remodelers can also recycle many sinks and tubs.

The benefits of recycling include “diverting a ton of material from landfills,” Donatelli says. Recycling “also helps people save money and make improvements.”

More information on NARI is available at www.RemodelToday.com.