According to a recent report from the American Federations of Labor, many building and construction unions are working hard to educate their members on the best ways to utilize efficient materials, new skills, and green technologies in order to prepare them for green jobs of the future.

The Plumber and Pipe Fitters of the United Association of Journeymen have already begun their concentration on going green by identifying and educating members on various technologies that could prove to be the future of plumbing. Such technologies use less energy and natural resources than traditional technologies, have minimal impact on the environment and use materials that can be reused or recycled. Even some of these innovations have already been implemented in commercial and residential sites as part of the program.

Additionally, the group has also a founding member of the Green Mechanical Council, an alliance of manufacturers, skilled professionals, universities and other organizations dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly equipment and processes that maximize energy efficiency, conserve water and use renewable and sustainable fuel sources. The council (called “GreenMech”) conducts education and training activities for professionals and apprentices working within various industries, including plumbing and home energy.

To all plumbers and contractors out there: what green technologies have you implemented in your recent projects? How do you think green technologies will impact the future of plumbing and construction?