Greenguard FAQs

What is GREENGUARD?

The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) is an independent, non-profit organization that oversees the GREENGUARD Certification Program. The program focuses on indoor air quality by testing products for a variety of VOCs.

When did GEI begin certifying products?

In the year 2000, some building insulation products were the first to become GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified. Soon after, several office furniture companies had their products tested and certified. According to GEI over 99% of all high-pressure laminates are GREENGUARD certified.

How does GREENGUARD Certification differ from other standards?

GREENGUARD Certification and testing is considered a leading standard for measuring indoor air quality because it:

  1.Focuses on indoor air quality vs. outdoor air quality. 
  2.Tests for many different kinds of VOCs.
  3.Tests a product’s performance, rather than simply reviewing its technical data.
  4.Requires regular retesting (ITW TACC’s certified products are tested quarterly).
  5.Is administered by an ANSI-accredited organization.
  6.Offers a more stringent testing standard for Children & Schools

Can a building construction project be GREENGUARD Certified?

No, only products can become GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified or gain Children & Schools status. GEI recently started a mold-prevention program that can certify buildings as mold resistant. But its focus is much different that testing for low-emitting products.