American Lung Association, United Soybean Board unveil new Biobased Certified Facilities and Property Professional course

Building, facility and construction leaders have an unprecedented new tool to bolster sustainability efforts and prioritize worker health thanks to another groundbreaking partnership between the United Soybean Board and the American Lung Association.

Following the successful launch of the Biobased Certified Fleet Professional in 2022, the American Lung Association unveiled the Biobased Certified Facilities and Property Professional (BCPP)™ alongside USB at the New York Build Expo Feb. 13-14.

BCPP is a comprehensive online training program that educates professionals and technicians on the myriad benefits of biobased products, emphasizing their operational, health, safety and environmental benefits.

The course equips participants with a deep understanding of human and environmental health through reduced exposure to harsh chemicals and emissions produced through the use and production of petroleum-based products.

Graduates gain insights into the diverse range of natural biobased facility and grounds products choices available, along with guidance on best practices for sustainable building construction and operation as well as biobased product procurement.

There is no charge for the online course when using the passcode “USB23.”

Angela Tin, the national senior director of clean-air initiatives at the American Lung Association, expressed pride in the program’s comprehensive approach. 

“The Lung Association is once again proud to partner with USB to offer this comprehensive training program that educates professionals on the operational, health, safety and environmental benefits of biobased alternatives,” Tin said. “Expanding our course offerings to benefit construction, building and facilities leaders is a natural next step given the positive response we received since launching our Biobased Certified Fleet Professional course. The Lung Association now offers both comprehensive training programs through Teachable.” 

Susan Watkins, USB’s innovation and technology priority area coordinator and a Virginia soybean farmer, joined the American Lung Association for the roll out of the BCPP at the annual New York Build Expo. 

“USB continues to partner with the American Lung Association to realize our vision of delivering sustainable soy solutions to every life, every day, and that includes the building and facilities community,” Watkins said. “I am extremely proud that farmers grow sustainable crops for both food and new uses, like many that are offered for building solutions. Not only does it increase our bottom line, but it also offers more sustainable buying options for professionals, as well as protecting worker health and the environment.”

Lydia Pearl Monroe, deputy fleet manager for Prince George’s County, Maryland, finds value in both Lung Association training modules. 

“We are excited to be a part of the American Lung Association’s Biobased Academy,” said Monroe, whose fleet will be among the first in the nation to take the certification course. “For a fleet like ours that goes the extra mile to deliver sustainable solutions in any way that we can, it creates a win-win situation. It promotes the operational and environmental benefits of biobased products for our facility as well as our fleet.”

For further information or to register for courses, please visit BiobasedAcademy.org.