Producing furniture requires resources. That’s why, when purchasing new furniture, it is essential to ensure that its production, use and disposal have as little impact on the environment as possible.
Good-looking and always popular in interior design: wood. This natural raw material can be used in a variety of ways, is highly functional and has a long service life. However, forests are crucial for protecting natural habitats. That’s why when purchasing new furniture made of wood or wood-based materials, it’s essential to ensure that the wood comes from sustainable forestry. The Blue Angel also pays attention to this when awarding its eco-label. Additionally, it considers the entire life cycle of furniture made of wood or wood-based materials - from production to disposal - and verifies the emissions that arise in the process. Wooden furniture with the Blue Angel is therefore also harmless to health.
Advantages of low-emission furniture and slatted frames made of wood and wood-based materials (DE-UZ 38):
- low-emission
- from sustainable forestry
You can find the exact award criteria and certified products here.
Upholstered furniture can also be found in almost all households. Because of their large surface area, these can also be a source of pollutants in indoor environments. Pollutants that may adversely affect the environment and human health usually come from glues, upholstery materials or cover fabrics. They get into the room air and can not only cause irritation of the mucous membranes in the eyes and nose, but also coughing, nausea, headaches and breathing difficulties.
Low-emission upholstered furniture (DE-UZ 117):
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low-emission
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low pollutant content
Here you can find more information, the award criteria and certified products.
Another home trend is DIY (Do It Yourself). If you design and build your own furniture, you are guaranteed to live with truly unique pieces and can let your creativity run wild. But some materials - such as chipboard - can contain harmful substances. The Blue Angel also provides guidance for DIY enthusiasts and certifies wood-based materials that are particularly low in emissions.
Low-emission panel-shaped materials (construction and furnishing panels) for interior construction (DE-UZ 76):
- low-emission
- from sustainable forestry
Further information, award criteria and certified products can be found here.
Source: www.umweltbundesamt.de