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Total Number of Links: 60

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Article/report: 16
Case study/success story: 1
Fact sheet/checklist: 8
List: 2
Manual/handbook/curriculum: 16
Software/electronic tool: 8
Web site: 9

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Article/report

ASHRAE self-directed learning courses
Abstract: Self-directed learning courses offer you access to well-designed course material without leaving your home or office. This course format also allows you to review and study the material at your own pace and provides exercises that enable you to evaluate how well you are learning the material. Self-Directed Learning offers the practicing professional a convenient and flexible approach to continuing education in the HVAC&R field.
Source: ASHRAE
URL: http://www.ashrae.org/template/AssetDetail/assetid/25201

ASHRAE Student learning resources
Abstract: This site offers a list of links to engineering educational resources for a variety of student skill levels.
Source: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
URL: http://www.ashrae.org/template/StudentLinkLanding/category/428
7


Building Alternatives
Abstract: A variety of alternatives to lumber are discussed as building materials. They include adobe, bamboo, cob, strawbale, rammed earth and concrete.
Source: Campus Center for Appropriate Technology
URL: http://www.humboldt.edu/~ccat/alternativebuilding/frames.html

Building America Building Technologies Program
Abstract: Building America is a private/public partnership that develops energy solutions for new and existing homes. The Building America program combines the knowledge and resources of industry leaders with the U.S. Department of Energy's technical capabilities. Together, they act as a catalyst for change in the home-building industry. The Building America Web site provides a portal to technical resources supporting the construction of energy- and resource-efficient homes.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
URL: http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/building_america/

Building Blocks of Leadership: A Professional Development Program in Construction Management Education
Abstract: Educators in construction engineering and management programs are tasked with the preparation of the next generation of construction project managers. An effort is made to prepare students technically so that they can make immediate contributions to construction organizations. It is also vital, however, to develop the skills and traits that will allow students to eventually assume leadership roles in these organizations.
Source: Penn State University
URL: http://www.engr.psu.edu/pace/PDF/sem04/leadershipprogram.doc

Energy Lesson Plans
Abstract: There are tremendous resources here for higher education, as well as K - 12.Here you'll find information for lesson plans, curriculum, and educational materials for teaching students about energy, particularly energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Source: Department of Energy
URL: http://www.eere.energy.gov/education/lesson_plans.html

Green Building Initiative Resource Kit
Abstract: The Green Building Initiative works with builders and their associations to facilitate understanding and acceptance of sensible green building practices.
Source: Green Building Initiative
URL: http://www.thegbi.org/home/resourceguide.asp

Green Roofs Student Forum
Abstract: At this site, students involved with greenroof pursuits can chat, post projects and papers, and make contacts with other students, schools and companies - all free of charge. This is also the green roof industry portal, so students and teachers can access information, events, and other resources.
Source: Greenroofs.com
URL: http://greenroofs.com/student_forum.htm

Intro to Hydro Power [PDF]
Abstract: Hydropower is based on simple concepts. Moving water turns a turbine, the turbine spins a generator, and electricity is produced. Many other components may be in a system, but it all begins with the energy already within the moving water. This introduction suggests these and other things to consider to get the most bang for your flow.
Source: Canyon Industries
URL: http://www.homepower.com/files/HP103_14.pdf

Miscellaneous Building Resources
Abstract: Links to publications and papers on a variety of topics including green building, domestic hot water, photovoltaics, black stains, wood efficiency & durability and more.
Source: Building Science
URL: http://www.buildingscience.com/resources/misc/default.htm

National Renewable Energy Lab's Student Competitions
Abstract: NREL's Office of Education Programs seeks to develop a capable and diverse workforce for the Laboratory, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the nation through mentored research internships and fellowships for undergraduate and graduate students. Many opportunities are linked from this site.
Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory
URL: http://www.nrel.gov/education/undergrad.html

Residential Construction Topic Hub
Abstract: This topic hub introduces the importance of resource efficient construction or green building practices for builders, designers, architects and pollution prevention assistance providers. Nearly one hundred and fifty links direct users to some of the best information relating to green design, marketing, products, affordability, indoor air quality and related topics.
Source: Peaks to Prairies Pollution Prevention Center
URL: http://www.peakstoprairies.org/topichub/toc.cfm?hub=31&subsec=
7&nav=7


Small Wind Electric Systems [PDF]
Abstract: Small wind electric systems can make a significant contribution to our nation's energy needs. Although wind turbines large enough to provide a significant portion of the electricity needed by the average U.S. home generally require one acre of property or more, approximately 21 million U.S. homes are built on one-acre and larger sites, and 24% of the U.S. population lives in rural areas.
Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory
URL: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy04osti/36680.pdf

Student Chapters - National Association of Home Builders
Abstract: Housed under the Residential Construction Academy and funded by National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), corporate partners, and student member dues, the NAHB Student Chapters program helps to enrich the educational experience of students enrolled in construction-related studies and training. Chapters are located at universities, community colleges, high schools and vocational/technical institutions across the country. This link tells you how to get started and the benefits you can expect.
Source: National Association of Home Builders
URL: http://www.nahb.org/category.aspx?sectionID=767

Sustainable Housing at Pine Ridge Reservation
Abstract: The Pine Ridge Reservation, located in rural South Dakota is plagued with deteriorating infrastructure, poverty, lack of local employment, and high utility bills. Many of the residents, the Oglala Lakota Nation, live in mobile homes or substandard housing and spend nearly 25% of their income on utilities. Few people on the reservation have the resources or construction knowledge to improve their current residences or building energy-efficient, culturally appropriate houses. Ina Maka O Tipi (Living with Mother Earth), a new alliance of organizations, universities, and reservation residents, is committed to improving the living conditions on the Pine Ridge Reservation. As part of a long-term commitment toward a more sustainable reservation, Ina Maka O Tipi and a multidisciplinary group of students will collaborate on a design project focused on sustainable housing. Students and faculty at Colorado State University (CSU) have formed a special 2004-2005 course that will involve interaction with Oglala Lakota College students and other residents from Pine Ridge.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncer_abstracts/index.cfm/fuseaction/displ
ay.abstractDetail/abstract/7336/report/0


Wood for Building Green Project Guide [PDF]
Abstract: The Wood for Building Green Project Guide introduces salvaged wood, recycled-content, and certified wood products. It provides strategies for specifying these wood products, and offers resources for achieving wood related green building program credits. This guide also provides information and opportunities for specifying and sourcing wood products in innovative ways that support healthy communities and forest ecosystems throughout the world.
Source: Metafore
URL: http://www.getf.org/file/toolmanager/CustomO16C45F60586.pdf



Case study/success story

Houses that Work II
Abstract: the Building America Building Science Consortium developed the Web-based Houses That Work (HTW) as a climate-specific technical resource for designing and building homes that are 30% or more energy efficient than the 1993 Model Energy Code (MEC). The resource reflected the experience gained from five years of Building America teamwork, including insights gained during the construction of more than 8,000 production homes from across the country. Houses That Work was and is a freely-accessible learning resource and reference for builders, building product manufacturers, building researchers, and the general public.
Source: Building America Building Science Consortium
URL: http://www.buildingscience.com/housesthatwork/default.htm



Fact sheet/checklist

Earthcraft House Scoring Worksheets [PDF]
Abstract: These worksheets can serve as a point of discussion as to what should be considered for a high performance home.
Source: Southface.org
URL: http://www.southface.org/web/earthcraft_house/ech_guidelines/e
ch_scoring_worksheet.pdf


Green Building - Codes and Standards
Abstract: Understanding requirements of building codes is an early step in designing and constructing a green building. Going "beyond code" opens opportunities for adding more value to the building. Certification and rating systems provide credible frameworks and standards to guide developers, architects and contractors who want to go beyond code. There is also valuable information on writing contracts for green building.
Source: The Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center
URL: http://www.pprc.org/pubs/greencon/code_std.cfm

Green Lifestyle Scorecard [PDF]
Abstract: This fun exercise is meant to empower you with recognition for the environmental choices you have already made and to give you a nudge to make more good choices.
Source: New Hampshire Sustainable Energy Association
URL: http://www.nhsea.org/download/Walk-the-Talk.pdf

How to Build an American Lung Association Health House
Abstract: Details how to work with a builder to build a healthy home and answers basic questions regarding costs, advantanges, and components of a healthy home.
Source: American Lung Association
URL: http://www.healthhouse.org/consumer/Build.asp

List of Compliance Assistance Tools for Construction Sites [PDF]
Abstract: This table contains a list of compliance assistance tools developed by EPA, states, and other organizations for the construction sector. For each tool, the table lists the name of the assistance tool, the URL where it can be found, and an indication of the environmental focus area(s) that the tool addresses.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/publications/assistanc
e/sectors/constcompendium.pdf


Model Energy Code (MEC) [PDF]
Abstract: The Model Energy Code contains energy efficiency criteria for new residential and commercial buildings, and additions to existing buildings. It covers the building's ceilings, walls, floors, foundations, and the mechanical, power, and lighting systems. A current list of state codes is available at www.energycodes.org
Source: International Code Council
URL: http://www.energycodes.gov/implement/pdfs/modelcode.pdf

PATH Technology Inventory Index
Abstract: The technology inventory is a large compilation of new and proven resource efficient building technologies available to home builders.
Source: The Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing
URL: http://www.toolbase.org/secondaryT.asp?CategoryID=1402

State Energy Codes
Abstract: State contacts, current code status, code history, and construction data are located in the state energy codes database.
Source: Department of Energy
URL: http://www.energycodes.gov/implement/state_codes/index.stm



List

Healthy House IAQ Test
Abstract: Do you know how to keep your family safe and healthy? This quick quiz will test your Indoor Air Quality knowledge.
Source: American Lung Association
URL: http://www.healthhouse.org/iaq/IAQTest.asp

National Laboratories and Technology Centers
Abstract: The Department of Energy's laboratories and technology centers house world-class facilities where more than 30,000 scientists and engineers perform cutting-edge research. Much of the work is done cooperatively with universities and industry, some of which impacts building science.
Source: Department of Energy
URL: http://www.energy.gov/engine/content.do?BT_CODE=OF_NLTC



Manual/handbook/curriculum

Air-Exchange Measurements [PDF]
Abstract: This is a technical report and takes at least a couple of minutes to load with a high speed connection. However, it is extremely valuable for learning about air infiltration, ventilation, duct blaster and blower door tests.
Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory
URL: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy02osti/30270.pdf

American Lung Association Health House Builder Guidelines
Abstract: The American Lung Association Health House Builder Guidelines are among the most stringent in the nation for building a healthier, more energy and resource efficient homes.
Source: American Lung Association
URL: http://www.healthhouse.org/build/Guidelines.asp

Building Greener: Building Better: The Quiet Revolution
Abstract: Green building, one of the most significant developments in new home construction in the past three decades, is nothing less than a quiet revolution in the way that new homes and communities are planned and constructed. This publication examines this exciting trend.
Source: National Association of Home Builders
URL: http://www.nahb.org/publication_details.aspx?publicationID=17

Clean and renewable energy basics
Abstract: An extremely comprehensive portal to curriculum materials about the state of the art research being done by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the Department of Energy. This portal covers virtually every type of renewable energy being researched. Appropriate materials for every level.
Source: National Renewable Energy Lab
URL: http://www.nrel.gov/clean_energy/student_teacher.html

Continuing Adult Education and Training in Energy
Abstract: This site features resources on continuing adult education and vocational training opportunities in energy, including classes for homeowners interested in renewable energy systems and in building energy-efficient homes.
Source: US Department of Energy
URL: http://www.eere.energy.gov/education/adult_education.html

Courses in Solar Energy
Abstract: Designed for high school and college curricula, these courses cover an introduction to solar power and the principles of passive solar design for a homesite in Northern New Mexico. Many of the principles, however, relate to other locales.
Source: New Mexico Solar Energy Association
URL: http://www.nmsea.org/Curriculum/Courses/index.htm

EPA Teaching Center
Abstract: This is EPA's teaching site. It is a portal to a plethora of teaching tools, publications, other links, awards, grants, conferences, students jobs and other related information.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/teachers/

Green Tree decisions for environmental buildings
Abstract: An excellent introduction to the considerations that go into selecting resource efficient building products for a particular project. Applying these considerations is a process that the designer, builder or client can use over and over again to arrive at sound decisions for environmental buildings. The site also offers some examples of materials and technologies that were selected and used on actual building projects, just to demonstrate how the ideal product meets the real world.
Source: National Center for Appropriate Technology
URL: http://www.ncat.org/greentree/welcome.html

Housing Zone University
Abstract: This site features access to courses that range from Construction 101 to specific aspects of building and job site management.
Source: Housing Zone
URL: http://hz.buildiquniversity.com/allcourses.asp

How to Build and Profit with Energy Efficiency in New Home Construction
Abstract: The EnergyValue Housing Award guide is a compilation of best practices of winners of the national EnergyValue Housing Award -- which recognizes builders who voluntarily incorporate energy and resource efficiency into new home design, construction, and marketing. This book is valuable to builders who are thinking about creating a market niche with energy efficiency. It includes information on the basics of energy efficient construction, tried-and-true ideas from successful builders, and a list of resources for those wishing to learn more.
Source: National Association of Home builders
URL: http://www.nahbrc.org/tertiaryR.asp?TrackID=&CategoryID=1652&D
ocumentID=3404


Independent Solar Electric Homes [PDF]
Abstract: Utility independent, or remote, solar electric systems provide electricity for buildings that are not connected to an electric utility. Photovoltaics (PV) have been used to power remote homes for years. Applications vary from simple systems that charge a trailer battery, to complete home power systems that run everything from power tools to microwave ovens. This brief covers the basics of what you need to get started. For more hands-on information and examples of remote solar homes, see Home Power Magazine.
Source: National Center for Appropriate Technology
URL: http://www.ncat.org/ncatimages/pdf/indsolar.pdf

NAHB Model Green Home Building
Abstract: This publication contains guidance for builders engaged in or interested in green building products and practices for residential design, development and construction. This publication is not intended to be exhaustive and all-inclusive and the enclosed guidelines are not to be considered the only method of green building. These guidelines for green building originate from the collective experience of leading personnel in the green building movement (marketplace), but must, due to the nature of the responsibilities involved, be presented only as a guide for the use of a qualified developer, builder, remodeler, or design professional.
Source: National Association of Home Builders
URL: http://www.nahb.org/fileUpload_details.aspx?contentTypeID=7&co
ntentID=1994


Partnership for Environmental Technology Education
Abstract: The Partnership for Envirnmental Technology and Education (PETE) interacts with both schools and industries. Its Resources for Teaching is a dependable bridge for materials that can help teachers and students not only learn more about technology education resources, including construction and renewable energy, but its network helps assure that students are properly prepared for a changing job market after school.
Source: Partnership for Environmental Technology Education
URL: http://www.ateec.org/energy/

Sample Carpentry Curriculum [PDF]
Abstract: An overview of courses, competencies, and hours necessary to receive a carpentry degree at Utah College of Applied Technology.
Source: Utah College of Applied Technology
URL: http://www.batc.tec.ut.us/degrees/build.pdf

Solar Electricity for over 1 Billion People and 2 Million Jobs by 2020 [PDF]
Abstract: This report demonstrates that there are no technical, economic or resource barriers to supplying 1.1% of the world’s electricity needs from solar power alone by 2020; and this against the challenging backdrop of a projected near doubling of electricity demand by that date. Solar energy is a success story.
Source: GreenPeace and the European Photovoltaic Industry Association
URL: http://www.greenpeace.org.ar/cop10ing/SolarGeneration.pdf

Sustainable Design Certifificate Program
Abstract: Architects and interior designers are increasingly being challenged to design spaces in harmony with the environment. The Sustainable Design Certificate prepares practitioners to respond to this challenge. The Sustainable Design Certificate may be earned at either the undergraduate or graduate level. The Sustainable Design Certificate Program is now available entirely online, in partnership with BuildingGreen Inc.
Source: Boston Architectural Center and BuildingGreen Inc.
URL: http://www.the-bac.edu/index.cfm?pageid=122



Software/electronic tool

BEES - Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability
Abstract: BEES measures the environmental performance of building products by using the life-cycle assessment approach specified in ISO 14000 standards. All stages in the life of a product are analyzed: raw material acquisition, manufacture, transportation, installation, use, and recycling and waste management. Economic performance is measured using the ASTM standard life-cycle cost method, which covers the costs of initial investment, replacement, operation, maintenance and repair, and disposal. Environmental and economic performance are combined into an overall performance measure using the ASTM standard for Multi-Attribute Decision Analysis.
Source: Office of Applied Economics; National Institute of Standards and Technology
URL: http://www.bfrl.nist.gov/oae/software/bees.html

Electronic Compendium of Compliance Assistance Tools for the Construction Industry
Abstract: This database is a collection of compliance assistance tools developed by Environmental Protection Agency, states, and other groups for the Construction Sector.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://cfpub.epa.gov/clearinghouse/ECCAT/index.cfm?ECCAT=Const
ruction


EnergyWise roof calculator
Abstract: Updated in 2004, this software application offers an interactive, graphical method of constructing virtual roof assemblies to evaluate thermal efficiency and approximate annual energy costs. It also contains minimum thermal insulation requirements established by ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999.
Source: National Roofing Contractors Association
URL: http://www.nrca.net/rp/pubstore/details.aspx?id=357

Environmental Impact Estimator [PDF]
Abstract: Allows users to do life cycle assessments (LCA) for conceptual designs of new buildings or renovations to existing buildings. The tool incorporates the Institute’s life cycle inventory databases covering more than 90 structural and envelope materials and can simulate over 1,000 assembly combinations. The software is for sale but a free demo version is available.
Source: Athena Sustainable Materials Institute
URL: http://www.athenasmi.ca/news/promo/Athena%20Institute-Software
.pdf


Indoor Air Quality Design Tools for Schools
Abstract: Some teachers and students may choose to be involved with construction and renovation plans at their schools. The information available here is presented as a tool to help school districts and facility planners design the next generation of learning environments so that the school facility will help - rather than hinder - schools in achieving their core mission of educating children. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critically important aspect of creating and maintaining school facilities. IAQ Design Tools for Schools provides both detailed guidance as well as links to other information resources to help design new schools as well as repair, renovate and maintain existing facilities.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/schooldesign/

MasterCarpenter
Abstract: MasterCarpenter 2.0 provides solutions to difficult, on the job layout and design problems that occur frequently in the construction and carpentry related fields. The tools that make up MasterCarpenter include surveying, trim, wall framing, stairs and general spacing.
Source: Renaissance Software
URL: http://www.eteknic.com/products.html

Shareware Design Tools
Abstract: Sustainable By Design provides a suite of shareware design tools on sustainable energy topics.
Source: Sustainability by Design
URL: http://www.susdesign.com/design-tools.html

Stormwater Best Management Practices
Abstract: This site features technical documents, software and an extensive database developed over the past decade. The overall purpose of the project is to provide scientifically sound information to improve the design, selection and performance of stormwater BMPs.
Source: International Stormwater Best Management Practices
URL: http://www.bmpdatabase.org/index.htm



Web site

American Solar Energy Society
Abstract: The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) is the United States section of the International Solar Energy Society. A nonprofit, ASES is dedicated to the development and adoption of renewable energy in all its forms. Its website includes resources for renewable energy, as well as links to Solar Energy Home Tours in each state.
Source: American Solar Energy Society
URL: http://www.ases.org/

Healthy House Institute
Abstract: The Healthy House Institute offers help, resources, and links that can help you improve your home's interior environment, especially its indoor air quality.
Source: Healthy House Institute
URL: http://www.hhinst.com/

Home Builders Institute
Abstract: The Home Builders Institute (HBI) is the workforce development arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The creation of this non-profit corporation was a result of the merger of NAHB’s Manpower Development and Training Division, Education Department and the Education Foundation. Its Residential Construction Academy and extensive resource list make it a prime source of information for the construction trade.
Source: National Association of Home Builders
URL: http://www.hbi.org/

National Institute of Building Sciences
Abstract: This site is the building community's connection to the authoritative national source of knowledge and advice on matters of building regulation, science and technology. One of its major programs - and there are many - is the National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities.
Source: National Institute of Building Sciences
URL: http://www.nibs.org/

Oak Ridge National Laboratory Buildings Technology Center
Abstract: The mission of the Buildings Technology Center (BTC) is to identify, develop, and deploy sustainable and energy-efficient building system technologies by forming partnerships between the public sector and private industry for analysis, well-characterized experiments, technology development, and market outreach. Because the BTC is a "National User Facility," its facilities are available to manufacturers, universities, and other organizations for proprietary and nonproprietary research and development.
Source: Oak Ridge National laboratory
URL: http://www.ornl.gov/sci/btc/

One step ahead of tomorrow
Abstract: Stan Ovshinsky, ECD Ovonics' President and Chief Technology Officer, has been honored as one of Time Magazine's Heroes for the Planet. He holds over 350 U.S. patents and over 800 foreign patents that have significantly impacted our understanding of renewable energies and how to use them. Peruse this website to learn of some of the best work that is happening now regarding solar panels, energy storage, hydrogen fuel and fuel cell technology.
Source: ECD Ovonics
URL: http://www.ovonic.com/

Partnership for Achieving Construction Excellence
Abstract: An outreach program of Penn State University and industry, the site promotes integrating teaching, research, and service to the Building Industry
Source: Penn State University, faculty, and the building industry
URL: http://www.engr.psu.edu/pace/

Student Chapters - AGC
Abstract: Information on AGC student chapters, benefits, programs, and how to get started.
Source: Associated General Contractors of America
URL: http://www.agc.org/page.ww?section=Student+Chapters&name=About
+Student+Chapters


Student Chapters - CMAA
Abstract: Campus-based chapters offer students the opportunity to develop professional and technical perspectives associated with the CM services profession while pursuing their academic programs. Student participation in CMAA events, at the national or regional level, provides valuable networking opportunities for future employment, and the educational programs of the Association contribute to the early professional development of the prospective CM practitioner.
Source: Construction Management Association of America
URL: http://cmaanet.org/howto_start_student_chapter.php

Topic Hub™ Last Updated: 08/17/2005
This Topic Hub is a product of the Pollution Prevention Resource Exchange (P2RX)™
The Construction Science Education Topic Hub was developed by:
Peaks to Prairies Pollution Prevention Center
Peaks to Prairies Pollution Prevention Center
Contact Laura Estes (Peaks)
406-994-3451 or laurae@montana.edu
Peaks to Prairies is a member of the Pollution Prevention Resource Exchange™, a national network of regional information centers: NEWMOA (Northeast), WRRC (Southeast), GLRPPR (Great Lakes), ZeroWasteNet (Southwest), P2RIC (Plains), Peaks to Prairies (Mountain), WRPPN (Pacific Southwest), PPRC (Northwest).