Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1257023
later augmented with a checklist so builders could flexibly pursue paths to certification. With the committee's guidance, a new board was created to govern Built Green; Peter Orser of Quadrant Homes served as its first director. The first home showcased under the Built Green brand was built on the Sammamish Plateau by Specialized Homes. It boasted low-e windows, top-of-the-line air and water filtration, and formaldehyde- free finishes. Billed as the "home of the future," it certainly fit the bill. Built Green benefited from early support from key companies. High-capacity builders, including Quadrant, embraced Built Green certification as a cost-effective, accessible alternative to launching their own green brands. This early buy-in accelerated the program's growth. Built Green in a Nutshell Today, homes can receive Built Green star ratings ranging from 3-Star to Emerald Star. Certification for 3- to 5-Star homes requires achieving a set percentage of improvement above state energy code. Emerald Star certification requires net zero energy use, meaning a home that produces at least as much energy as it uses throughout the year. The certification process is relatively straightforward. When a builder enrolls a project, they must enlist a Built Green-approved third-party verifier to assist with testing and credit validation. Throughout design and construction, green features and strategies are documented and scored on the checklist, which includes several detailed categories such as site and water conservation, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and materials efficiency. When construction is complete, the third-party verifier signs and submits the checklist to Built Green, along with receipts, product specs, and an energy model. Built Green then reviews, approves the credits earned, and issues certifications. Beyond certifying projects, Built Green members receive marketing opportunities, including a directory listing and access to branding like signage and logos; utility incentives; discounted access to informative events and classes; and regular recognition of their projects. What's Good for the Environment Is Good for Business MBAKS Director of Programs & Products Aaron Adelstein has been with the Built Green program since 2005 when he came on as director. He wanted to work at the intersection of environmental stewardship and business, particularly in a multi-stakeholder organization representing diverse interests and voices impacted by sustainability issues. In a recent interview, Aaron told me, "I think every sector has a responsibility to the environment, including builders. Buildings impact the environment through energy use, water infiltration, sourcing of building materials, and many other factors. Thankfully we have found that mitigating such impacts is neither too difficult nor expensive and has a demonstrably positive impact on environmental health." He said the program's success in the Puget Sound stems from two strengths. The first is its local focus, which allows Built Green to adopt tailored best practices and leverage the expertise of sustainability leaders and public partners. The second is customer service. "Built Green's accessibility and practical environmental focus allow us to offer exceptional service and flexibility to the building community." Green building simply makes good business sense. Perfecting more efficient building methods results in less waste and a better product, and the Built Green star rating carries weight with consumers looking for healthy, high-quality, energy-efficient homes. Kate's Ridge, built between 2001–2003, was one of the first Built Green certified communities from Quadrant Homes. 16 master BUILDER | SUMMER 2020