Healthy Alternatives for Interior Finishes and Materials

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As we strive to design and create healthier, more sustainable interior environments, our work needs to include thoughtful selection of materials, finishes, furniture and fabric. In examining the materials, components and chemicals used in manufacturing of the products we specify, it is critical to consider how these details affect not just the health of the occupants, but also the health of surrounding communities and the environment. A growing number of manufacturers are making significant strides toward reducing the environmental and health impacts of their products and are on the road to a continual process of improvement. In addition to information shared on chemicals of concern and their health effects, the transitional and safer chemicals, new materials and finishes in the market-place will be shared with the audience.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and understand basic information about the key environmental toxicants in materials, finishes, furniture and furnishings.

2. Learn about products that use safer alternatives to some of the toxic chemicals that are currently on the market.

3. Learn about innovative efforts undertaken by health care facilities (as an example) and manufacturers to source green furniture and furnishings.

4. Learn about the new or upcoming standards from BIFMA and A.C.T., and green resources such as the Pharos Project.