Imagine a science-driven, objective online database covering all aspects of high-performance roof systems that allows users to comment and conduct peer reviews with an interactive format like Wikipedia.

Imagine a science-driven, objective online database covering all aspects of high-performance roof systems that allows users to comment and conduct peer reviews with an interactive format like Wikipedia. Well, that’s one of the goals Craig Silvertooth is actively pursuing as the executive director of the Center for Environmental Innovation in Roofing (CEIR) in Washington, D.C.

Founded in 2007, the CEIR is dedicated to promoting the development and use of environmentally responsible roof systems by:

1. Providing industry advocacy.
2. Coordinating and encouraging research.
3. Serving as an information resource.
4. Expanding market opportunities.

The center’s goals are ambitious, but Silvertooth is optimistic. “We’ve seen extraordinary participation,” he said. “Our board meetings are full, and there seems to be continued interest. There’s a lot of enthusiasm.
We have a formidable task ahead of us - transitioning to green building and changing our image in the process. If we maintain that momentum, our goals are reachable.”

As the center works as an advocate to the industry with legislative and standard-setting bodies, a sustainable roofing database is being designed. According to Silvertooth, the database should serves as “one-stop shopping experience for those seeking information on roofing and its energy efficiency and environmental impact.”

“We have to make sure the consumer public understands what’s available out there, as well as people in the industry,” said Silvertooth. For example, people in the architecture and design community are often unaware of roofing-related legislation and energy-efficiency credits, said Silvertooth. “We have to reach out and explain what current incentives are out there. There are a lot of opportunities the industry is not taking advantage of.”

Silvertooth will conduct a seminar highlighting the achievements of the CEIR at the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas on Feb. 4, 2009. For more information about the seminar, visitwww.theroofingexpo.com. For more information about the Center for Environmental Innovation in Roofing, visitwww.roofingcenter.org.