WSJ Reports on “Green Gap”

According to the Wall Street Journal Online (1-8-09), “Demand is booming for environmentally friendly construction. But it's booming so fast that there aren't enough skilled professionals to do the work.”

Of note is that “contractors, architects and other pros are rushing to get up to speed, often through their trade groups, which have started offering more training in green techniques.” And Michael Deane, chief sustainability officer of Turner Construction Co., says “any contractor or subcontractor who doesn't learn green building practices will go out of business.”

The article cites fear of liability as one factor driving building professionals to learn about green building. On a positive note the article acknowledges the advantage that a proficiency in green building practices brings. "I think builders who can say they are a certified green professional have a leg up on the market," says Philip LaRocque, executive vice president of the New York State Builders Association. This is a must-read article.

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