Written by:
Christi Farrell, RA, Leed GA
Updated:
December 17, 2023
Image source:
Studio Marlowe
In our pursuit of healthier homes, it's crucial to acknowledge the role that interior design plays.
While aesthetics are often the focus, the health implications that come with the materials and products used are significantly profound.
A key player in ensuring these products meet stringent health and environmental benchmarks is SCS Global Services.
In this article, we delve into what this certification entails, its importance in interior design, and how it's shaping industry standards.
SCS Global Services is a third-party certification body that specializes in environmental and sustainability certification, auditing, testing, and standards development.
It has been a pioneer in promoting environmental sustainability and public wellbeing through voluntary certification programs since 1984.
Within interior design, SCS certification is a mark of excellence for products that meet high-level environmental, sustainability, and quality criteria.
This is particularly relevant in creating healthier indoor environments free from harmful chemicals and sourced from sustainable materials.
Indoor air quality is a significant health concern, as most people spend nearly 90% of their time indoors.
Products such as furniture, rugs, and building materials can off-gas toxic chemicals, contributing to indoor pollution.
SCS certifications, like the Indoor Advantage Gold for low-emitting products, assure that certified items abide by rigorous indoor air quality emission standards.
Cases such as Hay and Kalon Studio, with claims to carry SCS certifications, showcase the furniture industry's commitment to healthier homes.
With certifications from entities like SCS Global Services, consumers are equipped to make informed decisions, opting for products that contribute to rather than compromise their indoor environment's healthfulness.
Manufacturers pursuing SCS certification must navigate a comprehensive assessment process that scrutinizes the environmental impact of their products, supply chain, and operational practices.
Earning the certification is not just a badge of honor but serves as a valuable tool for differentiation in a competitive market, signaling to consumers a brand's commitment to health and sustainability.
Companies like Hay and Kalon Studio, upon meeting the stringent SCS Global Services standards, can boast their certified status, implying a level of dedication to producing high-quality, sustainable products.
Q: What does SCS certification cover?
A: SCS certifications address a broad spectrum, from verifying recycled content in products to endorsing low VOC emissions, ensuring sustainable forestry practices, and more.
Q: How can consumers verify a product's SCS certification?
A: Consumers should look for the SCS label on the product or the manufacturer's website. SCS also maintains a certified green products guide on their official site.
Q: What benefits do SCS certified products offer for home environments?
A: SCS certified products contribute to cleaner indoor air, limit exposure to harmful chemicals, and usually involve sustainable sourcing – all of which are crucial for a healthy home.
In conclusion, SCS Global Services Certification is shifting the landscape of interior design towards a healthier, more sustainable future.
When brands like Hay and Kalon Studio adopt these certifications, they lead by example, influencing the market and benefiting consumers by providing transparent, health-oriented, and environmentally responsible options.
As we continue to realize the importance of the spaces where we live and work, certifications like SCS can help us make better choices for our health and the planet.
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Contributor
Christi is a licensed architect and interior designer specializing in sustainability. She enjoys teaching design and bringing transparency to the impact that furniture has on our planet.
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