The green, or sustainable building practices, extension of the North Peninsula Building Association’s operations is offering an orientation class for people in the construction industry next week.

The class will focus on three Built Green checklists and how they can be used to build homes and developments that are healthier for people and the environment.

The Built Green Checklist class is scheduled for 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, on the second floor of the Port Angeles Senior Center, 328 E. Seventh St.

Attendance at the orientation is required of builders who wish to certify their projects under the Built Green umbrella. Preregister for the class by contacting Susan Chadd with Built Green of Clallam County at susanc@olympus.net or 461-4167.

While the orientation class is aimed at helping building professionals produce healthful and resource-efficient, quality homes, the public is welcome.

The Green Communities Checklist addresses low-impact techniques for the design and construction of multi-lot developments while the Single Family Home Checklist does the same for construction of individual homes.

Built Green of Clallam County officials say the newly released Remodeler Checklist will be very relevant to homeowners and builders in Clallam County. Remodeling is considered a greener choice than building a new home and can be less expensive.

Eight Clallam County homes already have been certified as Built Green.

Built Green of Clallam County offers suggestions for homeowners and builders including:

• Minimize material waste in design phase

• Renovate rather than rebuild

• Use vegetation to mitigate storm water

• Use solar-powered outdoor lighting

• Reduce impervious surfaces

• Use drought tolerant plants

• Include adequate roof overhangs

• Install a clothesline, rain barrel

• Build smaller, design livable attic space

• Get home Built Green certified