A collaborative effort between the International Code Council (ICC) and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the National Green Building Standard (ICC 700-2008) provides the "green" practices that can be incorporated into a variety of areas, from new homes to high-rise multifamily buildings, and from remodels and additions to hotels and motels. As going green becomes an increasingly necessary part of building design, this standard outlines effective, relevant green practices, including lot design, preparation and development, resource, energy, and water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and operation, maintenance, and building owner education. By defining four threshold levels of Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Emerald, the standard gives builders the means to achieve their sustainability goals ? whether they are designing a basic, entry-level green building or aiming for the highest level sustainable "green" building with energy savings of 65 percent or higher. Ideal for use in both individual projects and community- or state- wide programs, it is an indispensable resource for anyone in the industry.