GREENleaders Certified Sustainability Training Course, New York City

Popular and comprehensive training program provides designers, retailers, manufacturers, reps, and others the knowledge and credentials to become experts in sustainability. This industry first, 6-hour exam course was developed in conjunction with the Sustainable Furnishings Council, the #1 organization with board members including ranking staff of World Wildlife Fund, Rainforest Alliance, and a founder of the USGBC. Over 700 graduated to date. Approved by GBCI for 6 CE hours and registered with IDCEC for .6 HSW CEUs.  

Unit 1 - The Case For Sustainability

Provides a grounding in the environmental issues related to home furnishings, including climate change, indoor air quality, toxic waste, and water conservation. Source documents are public records such as the U.N. IPCC 5th Assessment Report and the U.S. EPA, translated from technical jargon into easily understood concepts with common references, all explicitly linked to the furnishings industry.  IDCEC ceu 103081

Unit 2 - The Mind of the Consumer

Based on SFC's own research among consumers who have purchased home furnishings recently, content provides insight into their current thinking - including preferred terminology, hot button issues, level of concerns, purchase interest, price sensitivity, and perceived obstacles. Learn why consumers do what they do, and what you need to know to be effective with your marketing and sales efforts. IDCEC ceu 103314

Unit 3 - Sourcing Green Products-I

Detailed descriptions of the differences between available options in the components that go into home furnishings, including certified wood, rapid renewables, commercial harvests, bio-hybrids and recycled/recyclable content. Learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how each option relates to resource conservation and other environmental concerns. IDCEC ceu 103183

Unit 4 - Sourcing Green Products-II

More on materials and components, with a focus on reduction of energy use and avoidance of toxic inputs. Discussion covers low VOC finishes, vegetable-tanned leathers and organic textiles.  Learn to make educated recommendations on these other important elements in a commercial space or in the home.  IDCEC ceu 103184

Unit 5 - Designing Green Interiors

Recommendations on ways of reducing expense and environmental footprint in residential spaces and commercial operations, with many tips and tricks for lighting and cooling, with exact methods of calculating cost and carbon savings, as well as best choices in recycling, and affixed materials like wall paint, window treatments, flooring, and carpeting.  IDCEC ceu 103185

Unit 6 - Selling Green Solutions

Answers the questions most commonly asked by customers, in simple and compelling ways. What’s the difference between green and sustainable? Who’s interested, and when will they start asking for it? How much are they willing to pay? What does it say about your regular products? Why should you buy now, and can it make a difference? Learn how to initiate, advance and close a green sale among ordinary customers.  IDCEC ceu 103186