Finding a professional

The opportunities to create a more sustainable building will be greatly increased if you hire design and construction professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced in green building practices and principles. The lists below are a starting point to find professionals who best meet your needs.

American Institute of Architects - Minnesota Chapter 
Search the online Firm Directory with "Sustainable Design" selected for the "Building Type" field. The web site also features the AIA-MN Committee on the Environment (COTE) and Architecture Minnesota Magazine. 

Building Commissioning Association (BCA)
  BCA is dedicated to developing a common, industry-wide understanding of what constitutes effective "building commissioning," assuring that building systems function properly to satisfy the owner's operational needs.  The BCA has developed a Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP) designation which requires being active in the building commissioning industry for at least three years; being of acceptable character, ability and reputation; submitting a comprehensive application; and successfully completing a two hour examination. List of CCPs.

Energy Star for New Homes: Find a Builder, Lender, Rater or Utility Program
  Search this site for active ENERGY STAR home builder partners in each state who have built and qualified an ENERGY STAR labeled home in the past 12 months, or have become a new partner. Every ENERGY STAR labeled home is independently verified to use at least 30% less energy than a home built to the model energy code.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): Accredited Professionals Directory
  Search this directory for experienced building industry professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge of integrated design by passing the U.S. Green Building Council's professional examination. This exam tests an individual's understanding of green building practices and principles, and familiarity with the requirements of the LEED rating system for commercial buildings. The directory includes over 100 Minnesota-based professionals.

The Not So Big House: Architects, Builders and Craftspeople
  View lists of building industry professionals who endorse Sarah Susanka's "Not So Big House" concept, which trades "superfluous square footage for less tangible but more meaningful aspects of design that are about beauty, self-expression, and the enhancement of life."

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency does not endorse or recommend as qualified any of the individuals/businesses listed on these sites. Always ask questions about a professional's experience and approach to sustainable building. Remember to check references and verify credentials.