Tradeshow Report

(Nov. 19, 2007)

K&A MARVELS AT THE 2007 GREENBUILD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE AND EXPO IN CHICAGO

It goes without saying that attending the GreenBuild Conference and Expo was an inspiring event. The level of excitement and energy transpiring from both the exhibitors and attendees was tremendous. The final turnout closed at 22,835 visitors with more than 850 exhibitors presenting both commercial and residential sustainable products, technologies and services. The Expo was held at the McCormick Place in Chicago, from November 7 -9.

GreenbuildWhile at the show, we instantly heard about Bill Clinton’s keynote address held on Wednesday, November 7, attended by about 8,000 people. Clinton announced a new partnership to retrofit public and private schools across the U.S. This much needed effort will reduce the energy consumption of school buildings, thus lowering energy bills.

As our offices and homes are in Atlanta, currently under a severe drought, we were delighted by the numerous water conserving products now available. From Waterless No-Flush Urinals to the use of recycled water in the manufacturing process, it’s evident today’s manufacturers are enthralled with all aspects of being green. To name a few: Sloan Valve introduced the world’s first solar-powered Flushometer while Caroma showcased numerous high efficiency toilets including its 32 dual flush toilet offerings. Caroma also unveiled the H2Zero, the company’s first waterless urinal that took three years to develop.

As we progressed further on the GreenBuild show floor, we observed that wood, glass, brick and concrete, were among some of the renewable materials and resources helping to advance the world’s eco-friendly movement. Flooring companies (Shaw Industries and Honeywell) had a great turn out as well as roofing manufacturers - offering cool roofs and cool vent roofs. For instance, EcoStar promoted the use of recycled rubber and plastic for its roofing systems. Atlas promoted its Polyiso Insulation, a foam used under the first layer of the roofing system. Another interesting exhibitor was EnviroPLANK, presenting its EnviroSLAB countertops manufactured with 100 percent recycled glass. Dryvit promoted the Dryvit Brick Systems EIFS and discussed how its exterior finishes exhibit very low VOC levels. Paint manufacturers, such as Benjamin Moore, were also demonstrating environmentally-conscious paints for residential use.

GreenBuild isn’t limited in terms of education as the conference held over 72 educational sessions addressing topics on a wide range of issues spanning from urban planning and climate and carbon neutral design, to government programs and initiatives.

With everyone demonstrating an ultimate commitment to the development of sustainable products and technologies, GreenBuild is one of the most thrilling and stimulating industry trade shows to attend.

We look forward to GreenBuild next year to be held in Boston in November 2008.

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