Green Builder’s Expo

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Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a Green Building Rating System, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. A 112 page publication explains the point system and what it takes for an existing building to become LEED certified.

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In a large gymnasium at Northampton Community College last weekend, Lehigh Valley Green Builders displayed a wide variety of ideas and technology. It was an excellent place to develop a plan for green living. Here are just a few of the many exhibits.

This cute little house illustrated how much energy our houses waste and suggested an energy audit.

Ever since we paved over paradise, surface run-off has caused flash floods and pollution to streams. Pervious concrete filters water naturally and returns it to the ground water. I wasn’t able to make cost comparison to traditional paving because of variability in sites, climate and size of the job. In fact, it was difficult to make cost comparisons at most of the vendors.

The kids expo included butterfly gardening, worm bin composting, make your own rain gauge, papermaking and creative art activities (top photo).

In 12 meeting rooms off the main gym, various groups presented talks on Green Building, Green Living and Renewable Energy. The show site lists all the talks, workshops and demonstrations.

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This was the first time I’ve visited the Lehigh Valley Green Builder’s Expo. I didn’t allow enough time to take it all in. Creating Backyard Habitats, Plan Before Growing Vegetables, Rain Gardens, Practical Composting, Using Native Plants in the Landscape are a few of the presentations I missed.

Next year I will check presentations more carefully before I go and make a better plan. The show is definitely worth spending most of the day.

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