Green blocks
Integrity Block, a manufacturer of sustainable building materials, developed the first green block replacement for structural, architectural, and landscape applications. This next generation in block design is touted to have critical improvements, such as superior energy efficiency, distinctive architectural finish, and the use of natural, sustainable, and recycled materials to generate valuable LEED credits. No more expensive than standard concrete masonry units and using the same building process, Integrity Block delivers superior thermal performance, which decreases heating and cooling costs. This block is engineered from a proprietary soil composite and offers natural, distinctive colors for a unique finish.
Integrity Block, www.integrityblock.com

Green roof system
The GreenGrid modular Green roof system manufactured by Weston Solutions, Inc., was selected by the Center for Urban Ecology for the 7,000-square-foot roof atop the organization’s D.C. headquarters. With a green roof, stormwater is absorbed and cleaned, and what is discharged is released slowly into the environment. Additionally, the green roof helps the facility conserve energy, prolong roof life, and reduce ambient air temperatures. The GreenGrid system was chosen particularly because it is lightweight and has a simple design. Essentially, the soil and plant media are pre-installed in 100-percent recycled plastic modules and then placed on the rooftop.
Green Grid Roofs, www.greengridroofs.com

Structural insulated panels
Premier Building Systems (PBS), North America’s largest manufacturer of structural insulated panels (SIPs), says that SIPs can attain up to 60 percent heating and cooling savings. When paired with other critical energy-saving components such as solar or photovoltaic panels and radiant heating, homes and buildings that are constructed out of PBS SIPs can regularly achieve zero-energy status. Used for the entire building envelope to construct roofs, walls, and floors, PBS SIPs are composed of one layer of expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation sandwiched between two layers of oriented strand board. The construction and structural integrity of PBS SIPs offer an alternative framing method that is more energy-efficient and cost-effective than traditional stick-frame construction. PBS SIPs reduce construction costs and jobsite waste and offer a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Premier Building Systems, www.pbssips.com

Structural panel firm acquired
The exclusive distributorship in California of Kama Energy Efficient Building Systems, Inc., was acquired by Western Specialty Fabrications, Inc. Western had been diligently searching for the right environmentally friendly product to enhance its panel product line. The multiple environmental benefits offered by Kama-EEBS Panels coupled with their versatility and competitive pricing continue to be a huge benefit to the building industry. Kama-EEBS Panels are the newest generation of structural insulated panels including the new design that is not "sandwiched" and therefore does not contain a thermal bridge. Unlimited versatility, ease of installation, and price now make it affordable to build green.
Kama Energy Efficient Building Systems, Inc., www.kama-eebs.com

Design guides for structural loads
Structural Load Determination Under 2006 IBC AND ASCE/SEI 7-05, authored by David Fanella, Ph.D., S.E., P.E., F.ASCE, provides a valuable resource for determining structural loads, including dead load, occupancy live load, roof live load, and environmental loads such as rain, snow, wind, and seismic loads. The book is packed with flowcharts, load diagrams, and illustrated design examples solved in a step-by-step fashion. It will also help engineers learn and properly apply the complicated load provisions of the 2006 IBC and ASCE/SEI 7-05. It is an ideal desk reference for practicing professionals or textbook for top engineering programs. (360 pages, item #4034S06)
International Code Council, www.iccsafe.org