KINGSTON, MA (October 31, 2002) - RS Means, a product group of Reed Construction Data, formerly CMD, announces the release of its newest book, Green Building: Project Planning & Cost Estimating. This unique publication combines guidance on green, i.e. sustainable design and materials, project management and budgeting along with case studies and RS Means cost data covering materials, equipment and labor for the installation of green materials, products and systems.

At a time when resource conservation, healthy indoor environments and ecological preservation have become foremost priorities among building owners and designers, the need for information on sustainable building techniques and costs has never been greater. Written jointly by a team of leading architects, engineers and other green building experts, Green Building: Project Planning & Cost Estimating provides architects, engineers, facility managers and contractors with a step-by-step look at every aspect of planning, designing, estimating and commissioning structures that are environmentally sustainable, healthier and cost-effective.

"The publication of Green Building: Project Planning & Estimating is a major jump forward," says Hillary Brown, AIA, principal, New Civic Works; founding director, Office of Sustainable Design and former assistant commissioner, New York City Department of Design and Construction. "It has been prepared to enable the spread of these best practices into the mainstream of the construction industry and across all the building sectors. Reed Construction Data has responded to the growing call for green building resources, tools, services, and especially RS Means cost data to support the demand for affordable and cost-effective green technology. The assembly of such information in one location is an enormous gift to the industry."

The authors, leading practitioners in green building design and implementation, provide expert, clear explanations of the various criteria for green building, including
•Energy and resource saving strategies, such as low-E windows, reflective roofing, solar technologies, and efficient HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems;
•Healthy indoor environments using, for example, low- or no-VOC finishes and natural fibers; and
•Use of recycled and renewable materials.

The book also provides users with the tools they need to
•Identify, compare and specify green materials and systems;
•Learn about LEED, EnergyStar and other recognized rating systems;
•Take advantage of financial incentives and funding sources; and
•Determine the cost of green products and calculate energy savings and payback periods.

"This publication gives building owners, designers, and contractors a comprehensive and easy-to-use tool to further their practice of green building—with clear methods and data for evaluating, specifying, and pricing green products and materials, and managing the special requirements of green projects," says Roger Grant, vice president, Product Management, Reed Construction Data. "By combining the practical experience of our authors with green product cost information, this book furthers our goal of supporting planning, design and construction practice, and economics."

About Reed Construction Data
Reed Construction Data is a leading worldwide provider of quality construction information products and services designed to advance the businesses of its customers with timely, accurate and actionable project, product, and cost data. Reed Construction Data collects, adds value to and distributes construction industry information through print and online references and resources for architects, engineers, contractors, manufacturers and other professionals in the construction industry. Founded in 1975, Reed Construction Data is an active participant in the construction industry, partnering with its customers and industry associations to meet customer information needs. For more information, visit www.reedconstructiondata.com or call 1-800-322-6996.