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www.marinelink.com MN25It appears as though Jim Henson?s frog was in fact right; it really is not easy to be green. By now, all are aware that being green, eco-friendly, or envi- ronmentally sensitive is a part of every- one?s social responsibility. Those who choose to overlook any accountability will eventually be compelled to clean up their act by forthcoming legal force and regulations. And yet, those who are eager to do their part are often bewil- dered by the mission and the many questions that arise. It doesn?t have to be that way. Here?s why: GREENTECHNOLOGY : WHY, WHENAND HOW?Boat builders and naval architects are often the recipient of eco-related questions. These include: Is green technolo- gy available for my application? Should I wait for more stringent regulations to develop? Can I even afford green technology? When seeking a new or replacement vessel, these issues cannot be ignored. Nearly every new con- struction inquiry received by boat builders today now includes some element of eco-friendly features in the list of the requirements. When grant money and federal fund- ing is involved, there are often stipulations that force the customer to pursue environmentally friendly technology. But, as much as everyone would like to be able to pur- chase and construct this beneficial equipment, it isn?t always available in an ?off-the-shelf? package. As such, BOATBUILDING By Joe HudspethBehind the Green Curtain MN#9 (18-31):MN 2011 Layouts 9/6/2011 4:20 PM Page 25