Letters

In reading the August editorial "Should We Reward Doing Good?" I believe that some clarification is needed.

Scientists, NASA, the U.S. EPA, and the U.S. Department of Energy have all verified the benefits of installing a white reflective roof. The endorsement was confirmed when reflective roofing was added to the Energy Star program in 1999. Putting a white reflective roof on a building is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce building cooling energy consumption, help mitigate urban heat islands, and improve air quality. By the way, a white roof can be installed for the same or lower cost as most dark-colored roofs. There is already a market transformation (to white) happening. This is "good news" for everyone.

The quote attributed to me is misleading. We support the NRCA's push for a more realistic depreciation schedule. We believe, however, that if the government is to approve this tax change, it should be aligned with the government policy to install reflective roofing. Rest assured that today there are more than 1,000 Energy Star roof-rated products.

We applaud BD&C for its continued support of sustainable construction and for taking the time to look at roofing, which is many times out of sight and mind.

Brian Whelan , President & CEO, Sarnafil Inc., Canton, Mass.