By Jan TenBruggencate
Advertiser Columnist

The state's building industry is increasingly aware of the nationwide trend toward construction methods called "green building" that have less effect on the environment.

Purists argue for designs that make extensive use of naturally occurring materials and recycled supplies. Typical examples are "earthships," free-form, thick-walled structures that incorporate used auto tires in earthen walls and orient themselves to take advantage of sun and shade to moderate temperature extremes.

But for more traditional-looking houses, the trend is to use new materials to build normal-looking structures.

The Hawai'i Building Industry Association three years ago launched its Hawai'i BuiltGreen program with goals of seeking energy efficiency, resource efficiency, sensitivity to site and improved living comfort. The program also helps building officials market their green developments.

"There's a huge education need," said Karen Nakamura, executive vice president of the association. "We need to educate designers, architects, builders and consumers. The language (of green building) is still two languages: one for the trade and one for consumers."

On April 22 — Earth Day — the association will present a "Build and Buy Green" conference to help educate the industry. While the public is invited, she said the language will be technical. For more information, call the association's Nalani Blane at 847-4666, extension 210.

"We're trying to educate the trade in all the different areas of building green," Nakamura said.

Some examples are the use of steel framing instead of wood. Costs are roughly comparable, but steel is endlessly recyclable. And since steel members can be manufactured to the right lengths, there is much less waste than in a home in which standard-length wood pieces are cut to fit, she said.

Nakamura said builders are moving toward molded fiber-and-concrete siding panels that are insect- and rot-proof. Hardiplank is one such product. However, there are arguments in other directions, including one cedar siding manufacturer that notes that cedar is renewable, biodegradable and doesn't require mining.

Nakamura said a promising product is a roof sheathing product that has a heat-reflecting foil affixed to one side. It keeps attics cooler, thus reducing cooling needs.

"Electricians and plumbers say they notice the difference" in attic temperature, she said.

Design issues, including roof vents, wide eaves to protect walls from the sun and big porches, can all make a home more comfortable.

"Many green styles come from old plantation home designs," she said.

Jan TenBruggencate is The Advertiser's Kaua'i bureau chief and its science and environment writer. Reach him at (808) 245-3074 or jant@honoluluadvertiser.com.