According to the Sustainable Forest Initiative Web site, certification involves an audit proving that program practices are being met, renewable every five years. It also requires certification that the company meets Sustainable Forest Initiative's chain-of-custody standards.

The certified companies must have written policies to help achieve principles such as sustainable forestry, preservation of forest and soil health, protection of water resources and biological diversity, legal compliance and continual improvement.

Cedar Knoll recently added Green Mountain Eco Homes of Colchester, Vt., as one of its authorized dealers.

In a news release, Marx said, "As a green manufacturing facility, we are also delighted that Green Mountain Eco Homes brings with it a focus on alternative energy consumption and environmental conservatism."

Green Mountain Eco Homes offers energy-saving practices, such as geothermal heating and cooling systems, radiant floor heating systems, solar hydronics, tankless water heaters, wind turbines and photovoltaics.

Cedar Knoll also offers JELD-WEN products, such as its AuraLast wood windows, doors and door frames. According to the JELD-WEN Web site, that water-based process for wood preservation reduces harmful volatile organic chemicals by 96 percent compared to the more common solvent-based dip-treatment process.

Marx said Cedar Knoll continues to support New York State Electric & Gas in its NewWindEnergy initiative, where customers agree to purchase wind-generated electricity.

dheath@pressrepublican.com