Just about any company can label their products “green”, but that doesn’t necessarily
mean they’re healthier or more environmentally friendly than others on the market. The
Greenguard Environmental Institute (GEI) set out to change that by implementing an
indoor air certification program. It certifies products that meet the GEI standards
for low chemical and particle emissions.

To obtain certification, products such as insulation, adhesives, flooring, and paint
are tested under conditions that simulate normal use. Researchers measure emissions
of formaldehyde and other VOCs. If a product meets the strict criteria, the
manufacturer may use the Greenguard mark on that product’s packaging. The product
is then tested regularly to ensure that it still meets the certification criteria.

Since children are especially vulnerable to toxins, there’s also a classification
called “GREENGUARD Children and Schools” to insure that products are safe for places
where children are more likely to be.

To search for certified products, visit the online product guide at:

http://www.greenguard.org