Wood Products Part of New Home Retrofit Legislation
Thanks to the leadership of Congressman Stupak (D-MI) wood products language was included in an amendment that passed on the House floor as part of the legislation. The American Forest Foundation, along with other partner groups, has been working to secure the wood products addition.
Wood products are one of the most environmentally-friendly building materials and leads to reduced pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and less energy consumption. The Homestar bill provides financial incentives for homeowners to retrofit their home with appliances and other materials that improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
With the language included in the bill by Congressman Stupak, homeowners will be able to use wood products, such as shutters or flooring, that are more energy efficient than alternatives.
With the growing green building and energy efficiency movements, this is an important step to recognize the value of wood products in these emerging markets and can help revive wood products’ markets for family forest owners. Good for homeowners, the environment and family-owned forests!
