NSF International, an Ann Arbor based company, recently drafted new certification standards for "green" flooring.  The flooring certification will give US consumers an additional boost of confidence about credible green flooring products.  NSF also hopes that the standard will help companies earn points in the the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program (LEED).

The certification has not ignored the "human" factor - to qualify companies would need to verify that they meet social accountability goals such as complying with labor rules and assuring no workplace discrimination is taking place.  Some local Ann Arbor architects are concerned about such guidelines.  Similar programs with social responsibility criteria have lead to higher costs and fewer projects seeking certification diluting the original cause.

To date, Ann Arbor builders focusing on environmentally friendly processes have seen a healthy interest in "green" projects.  The use of green building materials seems to be a strong selling point.  They expect the NSF certification will add value to the real estate proposition.  Certification can take 2-3 months to achieve and even longer to prepare for. 

NSF is also in the process of drafting green standards for carpeting, textiles, furniture and roofing membranes. 

To find out more about Ann Arbor green building projects, please contact Kathy Toth and Team

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