Healthier spaces. And make them gorgeous!

The CRI Green Label Plus Indoor Air Quality certification is an essential tool for designers who prioritize the health and well-being of building occupants. This certification, established by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), helps designers make informed choices about flooring materials that support healthier indoor environments. Achieving the CRI Green Label Plus certification means that a product has met some of the most stringent standards for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions, ensuring it is among the lowest emitting materials available on the market.

Volatile organic compounds are chemicals that can easily become vapors or gases. They are released from various building materials and products, including flooring, and can significantly impact indoor air quality. High levels of VOCs can lead to a range of health issues, including headaches, dizziness, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions. By selecting flooring materials that have low VOC emissions, designers can help create safer and more comfortable indoor spaces for occupants.

The CRI Green Label Plus program builds upon the initial Green Label certification by setting even higher standards for indoor air quality. To achieve this certification, products undergo rigorous testing by independent laboratories. These tests measure the emission levels of various chemicals, ensuring that they fall within the acceptable limits established by the program. Only products that pass these stringent tests are awarded the CRI Green Label Plus certification, making it a reliable indicator of low-emitting flooring options.

In addition to health benefits, selecting CRI Green Label Plus certified products can also contribute to sustainable building practices. Many green building certification programs, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), recognize the CRI Green Label Plus certification and award points for using low-emitting materials. This can help designers and builders achieve their sustainability goals and create buildings that are both environmentally responsible and health-conscious.

The CRI Green Label Plus Indoor Air Quality certification provides a valuable framework for selecting flooring materials that support healthier indoor environments. By choosing products with this certification, designers can ensure they are using some of the lowest emitting materials available, promoting better indoor air quality and contributing to the overall well-being of building occupants. This commitment to health and sustainability reflects a broader trend in the design industry towards creating spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also safe and environmentally responsible.

Want to read more about other sustainable certifications? Check out BIFMA LEVEL Certified Furnishings and the Forest Stewardship Council certification.