Soon-to-be homeowners looking to ensure their next residence is environmentally friendly will soon have a “green” seal of approval from the NAHB to help them.

On Feb. 14, during its Green Day events at the annual International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Fla., the National Association of Home Builders is set to launch the Certified Green Professional designation. A trademarked term, it will be a great marketing aid for builders and remodeling companies, association officials said.

“We know green is the future of building,” said NAHB President Brian Catalde, a home builder in Southern California. “With the Certified Green Professional designation, we're helping our qualified members demonstrate to their clients that the future is here.”

To qualify, industry professionals must have at least two years of experience and worked on one or more homes in the past two years. It’s based on the “Green Building for Building Professionals” two-day training course run by the NAHB since 2006. Applicants must also complete a management course, take continuing-education classes and meet the association’s code of ethics.

“On Green Day, the International Builders’ Show will become the largest green-building conference in the world,” Catalde said. “More than 170 manufacturers are displaying green products and services. Green architect William McDonough is delivering the keynote address.

“Once again, we’re demonstrating that NAHB and our members are residential green building leaders.”

The 2008 International Builders’ Show runs Feb. 13-16. More Certified Green Professional course information and locations is available atwww.nahb.org/courses.