California college now offering green education to designers

Interior design programs at community colleges and universities all over the country have begun offering green certification for their students and Palomar Community College in San Marcos, California, is no different. Its Eco-Building Professional Certificate programs are giving its students a competitive edge in the design market, according to The Telescope.

"Finally we have the perfect situation where the government is supportive and the students are excited: the climate is right and everyone and everything is coming together," Sandra Andre, an interior design instructor, told the news outlet.

The new curriculum will give students a chance in the growing markets of deconstruction and remodeling. Along with classes tailored to green design and sustainability, the certification requires students to create a hands-on project within the community.

This year, students will be working with the community of Carlsbad to revitalize the Carlsbad Barrio section of town. They hope to create a museum, a multi-use community facility and expanded apartments to foster a sense of pride and self-improvement in hard-hit communities.

Increasing your energy efficiency in your own home and using sustainable products is easy with honeycomb cellular shades. These are excellent insulators could save homeowners some money on their utility bills.