We were very pleased to read your article of April 7 covering "green building" techniques. We did, however, want to point out one misconception that was mentioned in the article. This is a lack of awareness related to copper roofing.

While copper is a "natural" material, it is also a metal, which is toxic to aquatic life. "Architectural copper" releases particles during rainstorms; this copper is carried into our creeks and bays. Copper is toxic in very small amounts. In our waterways it harms aquatic plants and animals, and continues up the food chain to affect people eating fish. The Regional Water Quality Control board is urging Bay Area municipalities to discourage the use of architectural copper during the building permit process. In addition, homeowners can avoid installing large copper garden fixtures.

Cheri Donnelly,Kathy Ottenberg

West Valley Clean Water Program,
Monte Sereno