Air pollution plays a huge role in the health of our environment. When concerns over chemicals, greenhouse gas emissions, and other toxins in the air grew in the 1950s and ’60s, America responded by creating organizations to research environmental issues. One such organization is the California Air Resources Board. The CARB established standards to help regulate emissions and maintain healthy air quality. CARB standards regulate heavy equipment and machinery, such as automobiles and generators. CARB also has standards regarding composite wood products, such as engineered hardwood flooring, to help regulate indoor air quality. Learn more about what CARB compliance means and how it affects your wood flooring with this overview.
The California Air Resources Board
California was the first state to take formal steps toward regulating air quality. National efforts like the Federal Clean Air Act and the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency followed, but they continued to recognize CARB and its original autonomy. As a result, CARB continues to hold stricter air quality standards for states to meet today. In addition to California, 14 states and the District of Columbia adhere to these regulations:
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Washington
What CARB Compliance Means for Wood Flooring
In 2010, CARB released Phase 2 of its Airborne Toxic Control Measure, also known as CARB2. This rule revolves around formaldehyde emissions in products that included hardwood plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard. Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to short-term and long-term health problems. CARB2 compliance ensures a wood flooring product, such as laminate or engineered hardwood, contains minimal amounts of formaldehyde. When you choose CARB2-compliant flooring, such as the USA-made engineered hardwood flooring at From the Forest, you choose a product that is well within CARB’s strict safety regulations. CARB2-compliant products preserve your home’s air quality and prevent detrimental health effects.
Your wood floors should be safe as well as stunning and stylish. At From the Forest, all our engineered hardwood flooring products follow CARB guidelines. With sustainable practices and a certified No-Added-Formaldehyde facility, you can rest easy knowing your new flooring is good for you, your family, and the natural world around you.