The first American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-approved wallcovering standard has been released. The goal of NSF/ANSI 342: Sustainability Assessment for Wallcovering Products is to provide credible third-party certification that allows buyers to make educated decisions on green purchases. Specifically, the standard evaluates the environmental performance and sustainability attributes of wallcoverings based on product design, manufacturing, long-term value, and innovation, among other factors.
Products covered by the new standard include textiles, vinyl, vinyl coated, alternative polymer, alternative polymer coated, paper, and other natural fiber products. The standard contains criteria across the product life cycle, from raw material extraction through manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life management, including:
- Raw material inputs (fibers, resins, additives, colorants, and process chemicals)
- Fabric or sheet formation (textiles)
- Finishing treatments (flame resistance)
- Attachment systems (adhesives)
- Product distribution
- Recycling
- Indoor air quality
