There were presentations on topics such as water efficiency and the future of Net Zero-rated buildings that consume no energy and produce no carbon emissions.

Keynote speaker Van Jones, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C., and a leading advocate for the creation of green jobs, was the greenest participant at West Coast Green. Jones gave his opening-day remarks over a WebEx hookup.

But the real juice was on the trade show floor, where classes, products and services were offered. This issue we offer some show highlights.

RainSpace, Your Own Water Resource
Capture, store and reuse water with RainSpace: a site-assembled sub-surface water storage chamber. Ideal for landscape irrigation and to decrease your reliance on under-producing wells and costly city water. Set up your own personal water source-right from the rain-so you'll always have water when you need it.


RainTube
Rainwater control is essential in protecting your home and your wallet from expensive water damage caused from clogged, overflowing rain gutters. RainTube® prevents downspouts from clogging while collecting rainwater at high volumes-even through heavy debris.

RainTube® is the first system to work with any roof/gutter combination and accommodates exposure to varying levels of debris. It is made from 100% recycled HDPE, which is virtually indestructible and comes with a transferable lifetime warranty.

Sustainable In Law Cottage
Larson Shores Architects in Oakland put out the welcome mat at its prototype in-law cottage. The 500-square-foot one-bedroom home, designed to be wheelchair accessible, includes a living room, kitchen with lowered cabinets and bathroom with raised commode and curbless shower.

Architects incorporated eco-friendly materials and included contrasting details for those with failing eyesight. Units range from 475 to 530 square feet. Plans start at $50,000 depending on finishes and site.

Solar Hot Water Heater by HTP
The Phoenix® Solar Water Heater from HTP is a revolutionary product that combines an internal solar heat exchanger with a 96%-efficient gas-fired back-up, all in one storage tank. When connected to solar collectors, the Phoenix Solar Water Heater harnesses the power of the sun to provide ample Domestic Hot Water while reducing energy costs and pollution. When the sun's energy is not enough, the gas-fired back-up heat source engages, providing large quantities of hot water without consuming large amounts of energy, thanks to modulating condensing technology and a 96% thermal efficiency rating.