How do products get listed in GreenSpec^®?

BuildingGreen does not charge for listings or for the review process, nor do we accept advertising. Because our resources are subscription-supported, we have total editorial independence and integrity--providing information you can trust.

Some Background

Every product is unique. Changes in manufacturing processes happen on an ongoing basis. New information comes to light that is synthesized into deeper understandings of cause-and-effect in our built environment. Consequently, there often aren't specific, black-and-white criteria for product inclusion in GreenSpec. Each product is evaluated individually for a wide range of environmental qualities--and we strive to include only the best of the best. The basic criteria are described in the Environmental Building News article Building Materials: What Makes a Product Green? Some of the key issues for each type of product are described in the introductions to the CSI section and Homebuilder subcategories within the GreenSpec Directory. We are also working with other groups, including the California Division of the State Architect, on developing comprehensive Environmentally Preferable Product specifications. Once those specifications are adopted, we will be referencing them when that is feasible.

How do we find out about the products? We often learn about products in the course of researching articles for our monthly newsletter, Environmental Building News. We also find products at trade shows. We read trade literature--dozens of magazines each month. We sort through press releases and newsletters. We participate in email discussion groups and user forums. Sometimes architects and builders recommend products they've come across. And manufacturers regularly contact us about products they hope to see included in GreenSpec.

How to Get Your Product Considered for GreenSpec

• Read the article Building Materials: What Makes a Product Green? and its sidebars, and
• Familiarize yourself with GreenSpec by looking at listings for similar products and reading appropriate section introductions.
• If you have a product that seems right for inclusion, we'll want to see technical and sales literature, including MSD sheets for the product and its constituent components. If available, we would like to see test data on VOC emissions or other environmental attributes. If it's appropriate to send a sample, feel free to do so.
• Email the information to GreenSpec@buildinggreen.com, or mail it to:
  GreenSpec
  BuildingGreen, Inc.
  122 Birge Street, Suite 30
  Brattleboro, VT 05301

Ideally, the product's environmental and performance qualities are already fully detailed in its literature; if not, please provide an explanation. We're favorably impressed when honest self-evaluations of drawbacks, limitations, and areas for potential improvement are included.

Remember, GreenSpec is not an advertising-based publication. Our editors maintain full control of product selection and product descriptions. Our subscribers appreciate that independence.

If you have additional questions, please email GreenSpec@BuildingGreen.com