You may have heard about the REGREEN Program, but you might have some questions regarding exactly what it is, why it exists, and why you should care. Well, let us explain the nature of the REGREEN Program and some of its basic details.

What Is the REGREEN Program?

Whereas LEED for Homes is comprised of set criteria, a specific certification process, and defined achievement levels, the REGREEN Program is instead a set of resources, tools, and guidelines for green home remodeling projects. The program is largely focused on retrofitting existing homes with green alterations and adjustments. By contrast, LEED for Homes is focused much more on new buildings and new housing developments.

The guidelines provided by REGREEN describe everything from installing a more water-efficient dishwasher to completely remodeling a living room as part of a larger green renovation project. The guidelines can be applied to a wide variety of home projects, both those done by the homeowner and those where hired contractors may be necessary.

Who Developed REGREEN?

The REGREEN Program is a joint venture between the American Society of Interior Designers Foundation and the US Green Building Council. A technical committee of industry experts collaborated on the project, developing the guidelines through a consensus model and having the guidelines scrutinized through a public comment period.

How Do Green Renovating Costs Compare to Conventional Costs?

As can be expected, remodeling a home in any way will cost some money. There’s money that needs to be spent on supplies, labor, appliances, and other items. However, pursuing a renovation project following REGREEN guidelines for a green home is not more expensive than pursuing a similar project that is less green. In fact, green remodeling projects may work out to be less expensive in the long run due to increased energy savings, reduced heating costs, and decreased water bills.

What REGREEN Resources Are Current Available?

The first draft of the REGREEN guidelines is now available for download for free as a PDF document. The draft was made available for public input in the winter of 2007 and the final version was released in March 2008 at INTERIORS ‘08: The ASID Conference on Design in New Orleans.

In addition to the guidelines provided by the REGREEN program, other resources include learning programs that support these guidelines. These courses are available as online offerings, as well as standard instructor-led courses on the adoption of green practices.