New tool provides multi-attribute, in-depth analysis of building products

via LEEDuser.com newsletter Brattleboro, Vermont - April 5, 2011 A dynamic new tool to help commercial buyers evaluate product content, certifications and other relevant data about building materials is now available through BuildingGreen. The tool, called Pharos, enables product specifiers, researchers and materials librarians to compare products within key builder categories against crucial health, environmental and energy benchmarks. Rated products receive a numerical score on a ten-point scale within each rating category. For ease of comparing individual products at a glance, scores are also color-coded. Pharos subscribers may use the system to examine the data directly in order to evaluate product attributes and chemical hazards. A Pharos user can also set filters based on scores or attributes, conduct searches and create product libraries that effectively let the user set their own priorities and preferences. For products outside the Pharos database, subscribers can use the Pharos Chemical and Material Library as a stand-alone tool to look up a chemical, polymer, metal, wood species or other material from any product and learn about any listed hazards for that material. The addition of Pharos strengthens BuildingGreen's position as the authoritative resource for the green building industry. "BuildingGreen has been a trusted source, on the leading edge of green product innovation for 20 years. Pharos adds a new level of in-depth exploration of the healthfulness and other aspects of these products," said Nadav Malin, President of BuildingGreen. Interested parties can learn more about Pharos here, or contact: Walter Pearce at walter@buildinggreen.com or 122 Birge Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301.