Green Glossary

 

PVC-free

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is used in many fabrics to make them more durable. These fabrics are the ideal solution for a project requiring superior performance and durability.

Additives in PVC, however, off-gas and create the familiar "new car" smell. These additives are known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). PVC-free fabrics do not contain these additives and as a result, do not release the odor of PVC-based fabrics during off-gassing.



 

Recycled materials

Recycled products are made in part or whole from material that contains either reused, remanufactured or reconditioned material, and includes recycled raw materials. Recycled fabrics reduce the amount of waste entering landfills and decrease the need for virgin materials.



 

GREENGUARD

GREENGUARD Environmental Institute is an independent organization that tests and certifies materials used for furnishings to ensure they contain minimal or non-existent levels of dangerous contaminants that could impact indoor air quality.

The testing parameters assess over 75,000 chemicals and toxins in fabrics manufactured worldwide, allowing this certification to be accepted by a number of environmental organizations in the United States, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS), and Green Guide for Healthcare (GGHC).



 

Oeko-Tex Standard 100*

The Oeko-Tex Association is an independent organization that certifies fabrics worldwide to be free of harmful concentrations of dangerous chemicals. These substances must be non-existent or at very minimal levels in order to receive this certification.

Items marked with this label have been certified as being good for personal well-being. Certification lasts only twelve months to ensure continual compliance with the testing standards.
    *This certificate has been issued to the 3G Mermet Corporation for its Solar Screen materials sold in the United States.