To help new and experienced green builders and remodelers thrive in today's uncertain economy, this year's conference is focused on the "green" of green -- how the home building industry can adjust its business practices, revamp marketing plans and refigure budget planning with a new emphasis on green homes that appeal to mainstream buyers.

Headlining this year's event is Joel Makower, executive editor of GreenBiz.com and author of Strategies of the Green Economy and other books relating to green business and sustainability.  Makower will give the Keynote presentation on Saturday, May 9. 

More than 30 other educational sessions that run the gamut from market research results to the latest in green building science are also scheduled, including a detailed presentation on the National Green Building Standard, which was approved by the American National Standards Institute last month.

Also set: the annual Tour of Green Homes, which this year features single-family homes, remodeling projects and a subdivision scored to the National Green Building Standard. Green Built North Texas, the green building program for the Home Builders Association of Greater Dallas, is coordinating the tour.

The tour takes place on Friday, May 8 and will be followed that evening by the NAHB National Green Building Awards dinner and honors. This year's Master of Ceremonies is Fort Worth builder Don Ferrier, named the NAHB Green Building Advocate of the Year in 2007.

Industry members seeking the Certified Green Professional educational designation can arrive early to take the two-day Green Building for Building Professionals course and may want to stay Monday, May 12 for the Business Management for Building Professionals Course, which is required for individuals who do not already hold an NAHB designation.

A limited number of booths for exhibitors is still available. Information is available from NAHB Account Sales Manager Chris Hood at 800-368-5242, ext. 8684.

Some sponsorship opportunities also remain -- contact NAHB Account Sales Manager Julie Mines at 800-368-5242, ext. 8053 to secure a slot.

Last year's conference in New Orleans attracted more than 1,600 participants, making the NAHB National Green Building Conference the largest and most comprehensive event of its kind that caters to the residential construction industry.

This year's Corporate Sponsors include  Stock Building Supply, the Propane Education & Research Council, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and Whirlpool Corporation.