What to look for when you're going green. Everyday Green Guide

By Gaylord Brothers

Low- and No-VOC Finishes

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are released into the air as a result of off-gassing, often from common products such as paints, carpets, furniture finishes and cleaning products. These compounds severely damage indoor air quality and can be harmful to your health. Look for products that feature low- and no-VOC finishes or that are GREENGUARD certified.

What is GREENGUARD Certification? Products carrying the GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified® mark have been tested using stringent environmental chamber methods to be low emitting and to contribute minimal levels of pollutants to indoor environments. The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute is an independent, non-profit organization made up of indoor air quality, public health, and green design experts that reviews and verifies every product before granting it the GREENGUARD mark. For more information, please visit www.greenguard.org.

Materials

By buying furniture made from recycled or reclaimed materials, you know that you are reducing the strain on your environment. Choose products that make use of recycled plastics or metals, and woods that are from forests that are able to sustain their own ecosystems.

LEED Approved

According to the U.S. Green Building Council, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. Look for this mark as a sign that your product is a green choice.

Quality

Don't forget about the importance of quality construction just because you are buying green. By choosing sturdy products that are designed for your needs, you guarantee years of use… and less waste in the landfill in the long run.

Gaylord Brothers www.gaylord.com