Archives for September 2011

The Week in Green: September 24-30, 2011

The Week in Green is a series that highlights green technology, building science and sustainability.

Renovation Weekend: Surprises at the Job Site!

Are you interested in developing, designing or rehabilitating older buildings? Have you ever wanted to be an observer inside a construction project? Do you just enjoy a good story and making new friends? Well, clear your calendars because there are exciting renovation events happening this weekend in Sherman Hill.

Residential Stormwater Management Tips

Capture water from a downspout in a rain barrel or cistern. Rain barrels are a cost-effective way to reduce stormwater runoff near its source and to catch the “first flush” of stormwater from your roof. Rain barrels also provide a source of irrigation water for use in gardening or lawn maintenance.

Stormwater Management: Green & Main Designs to Lead the Way

One of the most prevalent topics during the construction of the Green & Main Pilot Project has been our plans for stormwater management. What will be most effective in dealing with rain water and snowmelt (sometimes simultaneously) at the site? How will we design the vegetative roof, the landscaping and paving materials in order to manage the amount of stormwater run-off?

Recent Construction: Site Development and Stormwater Management

In the heat of August on the construction site, our attention turned to cold temperatures.

With temperatures pushing three digits, keeping the soils dry and dusty, we felt mounting pressure from pending grant deadlines and the looming shifts in weather patterns – yes, I am talking about evening temperatures that drop below 45 degrees at night and constant concern about the early freeze that limits fall planting.

The Week in Green: September 17-23, 2011

The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon is an annual event held in Washington, D.C. It is a challenge that pits collegiate teams against one another to design, build and operate solar-powered houses. The winner of the challenge is the team that “best blends affordability, consumer appeal and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.”

Green Building Forum this Saturday, September 24, 2011

Where do heritage and sustainability meet? Restoring historic buildings!

Are you interested in developing, designing or rehabilitating older buildings? Join us to hear a panel of experts discussing green historic renovation as they come together to share the inter-connectivity between historic preservation and green building.

Green Teas at Green & Main this Friday, September 23, 2011

On-Site Networking Event with Leaders in Green Renovation and Design

Join us for an early evening gathering to meet and engage in meaningful conversations about sustainable historic renovation, using the Green & Main Pilot Project as the backdrop for discussion.

The Week in Green: September 3-9, 2011

The Week in Green is a series that highlights green technology, building science and sustainability in the news. SustainableBusiness.com reports that the private sector has invested over $2.4 trillion in green businesses since 2007, according to Ethical Markets Media. The Media group also anticipates a continued investment and commitment of nearly $1 trillion annually through 2020.

Profiles in Green: Sharing Good Energy with John Konior

It’s Monday morning and I’m sitting in a local coffee shop with John Konior, Assistant to the City Manager of Urbandale and one of the leaders in Central Iowa’s movement towards energy efficiency. Less than two months ago, Konior and his team launched ShareGoodEnergy.org, a website dedicated to sharing stories on energy efficiency in our communities.