Green Matters Conference to cover emerging concrete and sustainability issues

Source: Professional Trade Publications, Inc., Eugene, Ore.

A special focus Green Matters Conference, February 23-24 in San Antonio—co-located with the Concrete Décor Show —will convene industry experts to share up-to-date information on sustainable design and concrete construction. The program calls for seminars and panel discussions where industry experts will share insight on sustainable technologies; trends in green building; infrared reflective coatings; innovative uses of concrete to provide cooling and stormwater management; environmental benefits of polished concrete; and, advancements in functional resilience.

An update on current research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology-hosted Concrete Sustainability Hub will be the focus of a Green Matters Conference opening address by Portland Cement Association Director of Sustainable Development David Shepherd, AIA, LEED AP. In “Green Building Market Trends and Concrete Contributions,” he will present an industry outlook for 2012 and beyond. PCA Director of Codes and Standards Stephen Szoke will lead a seminar, “Integrating Resilience into Sustainability,” sponsored by the Cement Council of Texas.

“When innovative products and new methods come to market, it is a challenge to evaluate when, where and how to use them,” says Green Matters Conference Director Sherry Boyd. “It’s a huge advantage that the [event] is held side by side with the Concrete Decor Show so that attendees are able to ask the experts practical questions and see work in progress during demonstrations.”

Green Matters Conference registration includes admission to the Concrete Decor exhibit hall floor February 22-24, alongside live product and equipment demonstrations at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

The event is targeted to the whole building team, including public and private project owners and managers, landscape architects, builders, design-build contractors, specialty subcontractors, facility managers, municipal authorities and related consultants. Organizers note that it will raise awareness and understanding of the new directions in sustainable design and green building that are made possible with architectural and decorative concrete.  — Registration can be completed at www.greenconcretematters.com, or obtained by calling 877/935-8906.