ISO 14001 compliant
The international environmental management standard ISO 14001 assists manufacturers with the management, control and reporting of their environmental performance. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization, the standards enable manufacturers to develop a streamlined environmental management system (EMS) to minimize the impact of their operations on the environment. Compliant companies can seek certification from accredited auditors.
Locally made
Specifying locally produced materials and products offers both economic and environmental advantages. Use of locally made products and materials minimizes transportation and shipping costs, as well as reducing the amount of energy used in transportation and any pollution that may result. In regard to natural resources – timber or stone, for example – locally sourced products can be better suited to a particular region’s climate and conditions. Further, choosing locally made products supports regional economies and local producers.
Post-consumer recycled content
Consumer goods that have served their purpose, been recycled and reprocessed are considered post-consumer recycled content. This includes products used by households, industry and commerce that, after recycling, can be reused as parts of new products or materials. Examples of post-consumer recycled content include recycled rubber tyres transformed into roofing and flooring products, and old newspaper processed into cellulose insulation.
Recyclable
Recyclable products and materials can be reprocessed and transformed into new goods at the end of their useful life. Materials composed of a single substance (for example, aluminium or concrete) are generally easier to dismantle and recycle than those composed of multiple substances. Employing recyclable materials offers several benefits – reduced use of new resources, reduced landfill, reduced costs for manufacturers.
Packaging is reduced
The aim is to reduce the amount of packaging required to effectively house and transport products and materials, resulting in less waste material destined for landfill, lower manufacturing costs for producers, and reduced transportation costs. Some manufacturers implement returnable packaging systems or heavily in recyclable packaging. Paper, glass, metal and board packaging can be readily recycled.
Emits low VOCs
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emissions from carbon-containing compounds that pollute the air. VOCs are released from many common building products including solvents, paints and lacquers, adhesives, fabrics, carpets, printed paper, board products and composite timber. Rating schemes often categorize VOC content as low, very low, ultra low and zero.