Your source for green living in Western Wisconsin.
Green Certifications - Defined
Todays gold standards are:

ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices.

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home.index

 
USGBC (LEED)

The U.S. Green Building Council is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community of leaders working to make green buildings available to everyone within a generation.

http://www.usgbc.org

HERS (Home Energy Ratings)
 
Home energy ratings provide a standard measurement of a home's energy efficiency. Ratings are used for both and new and existing homes. In new homes rating often verify energy performance for the ENERGY STAR homes program, energy efficient mortgages, and energy code compliance. Homeowners who want to upgrade the home's energy efficiency can use the energy rating to evaluate and pinpoint specific, cost-effective improvements. For existing homes, homeowners can receive a report listing cost-effective options for improving the home's energy rating

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http://www.natresnet.org/
NAR's Green Designation
National Association of Realtors(R)
 

Green isn't just a trend; it's a movement. The National Association of REALTORS® believes that every step toward a greener, more sustainable environment is a step in the right direction. Whether you're looking to green your home, your business or your life, an NAR Green Designee can help.

A lot of people today are greenwashing, or falsely claiming to be green. To help you distinguish fact from fiction, the NAR Green Designees are educated and there to help separate fact from fiction.



http://www.realtor.org/