Recently approved as a U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Education Provider, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association will present its first related course, “Green Building with Concrete,” July 15 at Silver Spring headquarters. The USGBC Education Program presents professional development courses to enrich building professionals' knowledge and understanding of green building theory, techniques and trends.

NRMCA's course received USGBC status after a review of materials, content and instructors. It provides instruction on how the use of concrete can minimize environmental impact of buildings and public works projects during construction and operation, and helps engineers and architects utilize concrete building systems to design high-performance buildings that conserve energy and maximize occupant comfort. The course also offers background on storm water best management practices, including pervious concrete pavement systems in combination with bioretention swales; conventional concrete pavements; and, green roofs to reduce stormwater runoff and overall construction impact.

The course also details how concrete can be used to minimize urban heat islands, and how optimal recycled content can be incorporated into concrete to balance environmental impact and long-term durability. Course registration and additional information are available at www.nrmca.org/Seminars.