VOCs, renewable, recycled—what do these words mean? With all the buzz about going green, we want to ensure our customers have a clear understanding of sustainable products and processes.

Carbon Offset

Corporate or individual financial investment in a project designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Measured in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, one carbon offset represents the reduction of one metric ton of carbon dioxide. Examples of carbon offset funded initiatives include wind farms, hydroelectric dams, and forestry projects.

Cradle to Cradle Certification

A third-party certification program focusing on the health impact, safety, and social responsibility of products including upholstery and upholstery finishes. C2C analyzes the energy and water efficiency of manufacturing processes and considers how products will be recycled and composted. www.c2ccertified.com.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

The Forest Stewardship Council is a non-profit organization that certifies wood products based on principles and standards of responsible logging. This includes controlling water pollution, natural habitats and community displacement. Ask us about our FSC availability. www.fscus.org.

Greenguard

An institute that tests and certifies products to meet indoor air quality standards. www.greenguard.org.

USGBC & LEED

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) sanctions Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). LEED is a green rating system and certification program nationally accepted as a benchmark for design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. www.usgbc.org.

LEED AP

Design professionals accredited by the USGBC's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program (LEED). Accredited professionals understand credit requirements for certification and can assist owners in specifying products for a better future.

Energy Efficient

Products using less energy to provide equal energy output. For example, fluorescent and light emitting diode (LED) lamps use less energy than traditional tungsten bulbs but achieve the same, if not greater, amount of illumination.

Post-Consumer Materials

Materials generated from residential and consumer waste that can be recycled and used for new or similar purposes. This includes converting recycled glass into sheet goods and using recycled plastic to manufacture new products.

Pre-Consumer Materials

Recovered industrial and manufacturing materials derived from scraps, trimmings or cuttings that can be sold, traded, or exchanged. This includes wood, textiles, tile and plastic.

Polyurethane

Poly-vinyl chloride, or PVC, is a poisonous chemical. PVC-Free polyurethane has the same durability and feel as standard vinyl but is much healthier for individuals and the environment.

Rapidly Renewable

Rapidly renewable materials or fibers are made from plants typically harvested within a cycle of ten years or less.

Urea-Formaldehyde

A colorless gas found in adhesives used in particleboard and sealants. Products releasing high levels of urea-formaldehyde can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems.

VOCs

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), found in paints and adhesives, are chemicals that vaporize at room temperature and can be hazardous to installers and occupants.