UA/MCAA Announce Sustainable Initiative

The United Association (UA) and the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) are launching several joint initiatives to assist members and the public in their efforts to pursue sustainable building practices. Toward that end, a task force comprised of leading members of each group met in Toronto, Canada, recently, to begin laying the framework for the multi-faceted program.
The mission statement for the joint initiative states:
Together MCAA and the UA are committed to a green stewardship of our environment and increasing our energy independence. We will do this by providing our members with the on-going training, information and resources necessary to install, service and maintain mechanical and plumbing systems in a manner that will safeguard our health and the well-being of future generations by respecting and conserving the world's limited natural resources.
Immediate action steps include:
- input and expertise regarding plumbing codes
- involvement and representation with the U.S. Green Building Council
- legislation
- education and training of members
- marketing and grassroots efforts.
Task Force co-chairs David Kruse and Donald House (UA Director HVACR, Service and Residential), agree that task force activities will enhance business opportunities for both organizations in addition to educating consumers on the importance of reducing carbon emissions and conserving energy.
The UA, in conjunction with GreenMech and HVACR Excellence, has already implemented a “green awareness” certification program. MCAA will make this program available to their members as well. This 20-hour training program is designed to help participants understand the emerging concepts, terminology, systems and products that are considered “green.” The program will provide technicians and others with the information they need to understand, purchase and utilize energy efficient green products.
MCAA's first green conference, Catching the Next Wave: Seizing the Green Opportunities that Lie Ahead, has been endorsed by the UA. The conference will prepare participants to catch the wave and give them real-world-tested tips and techniques for working in this new era for our industry. The conference will take place at the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, WI, from September 24–26, 2007. For additional information go to www.mcaa.org/education.
For additional information on the Joint UA/MCAA Green Task Force contact: Don House, UA, at 202/628-5823 ([email protected]) or Barbara Dolim, MSCA at 301/869-5800 ([email protected]).