Overview:
Introduced in 1995, Built Green Colorado was created through the joint efforts of the Home Builders Association of Metro Denver (HBA), The Governor's Office of Energy Management and Conservation (OEMC), Xcel Energy, and E-Star Colorado.

The largest green building program in the nation, Built Green currently has over 100 builder members in Colorado, 45 sponsor members, and a Built Green Industry Leaders group. The operating budget of the program is generated from the dues and fees of the builder and sponsor members, and from the substantial financial contributions of the Built Green Industry Leaders. Built Green Industry Leader members are: James Hardie Building Products, Rheem Company, Boise Building Solutions, Trex Decking, Whirlpool Corporation, Kurowski Development Co., Grace Construction Products, and Marvin Windows.

A voluntary program, the purpose of Built Green Colorado is to encourage homebuilders to use technologies, products and practices that:

• Provide greater energy efficiency and reduce pollution

• Provide healthier indoor air

• Reduce water usage

• Preserve natural resources

• Improve durability and reduce maintenance

EcoBroker International is an Educational Partner of Built Green Colorado.

Benefits:
They are many, and the particular benefits will vary depending on the specific choices the builder has made from the Built Green Checklist, but in general the benefits are:

• Better energy efficiency means comfort and savings for the homeowner, less pollution for the earth

• Healthier indoor air means comfort, health, and peace of mind for the family

• Reduced water usage means savings for the homeowner, less strain on rivers and lakes

• Preserving natural resources means leaving more for future generations to enjoy

• Durable, reduced maintenance materials mean a longer life for the home, savings and more leisure time for the homeowner

Informing and educating the home-buying public on the value of a home that meets Built Green standards is one of the primary undertakings of the program. Built Green believes that the informed homebuyer will recognize the value of the greater energy efficiency, healthier indoor air, reduced water usage, improved comfort and durability, and reduced maintenance of a home built to Built Green standards. But perhaps most importantly, the homebuyer will know that their Built Green home represents their commitment to the environment, the future, and improving the way we live. After all, this place is everybody's home.

More Information On This Topic:

Built Green Colorado Web Site