ANN ARBOR, MICH.—NSF International announced that its new draft standard for Commercial Furnishing Fabrics (NSF Draft Standard 336) is now open for public comment. The Commercial Furnishing Fabrics standard is one of eight sustainability standards and certification programs NSF International has developed. These standards provide manufacturers an independent, third-party means of demonstrating their commitment to the environment and avoiding accusations of greenwashing. NSF International has also developed standards and certification programs for sustainable carpet, flooring, business and institutional furniture (BIFMA e3), and green chemicals.
NSF Draft Standard 336 for Commercial Furnishing Fabrics provides pathways toward sustainability by establishing measurable criteria for multiple levels of achievement and performance. For example, the standard assesses a product’s characteristics in the areas of material and component inputs, water and energy use, recycling practices, and social accountability.
The standard can be applied to fabrics used in upholstery, drapes, bedding, wall coverings and cubicle material. These fabrics are often used in public or commercial buildings, such as offices, hotels, restaurants or hospitals. Choosing sustainable products can help an organization earn credits toward LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification.
The Commercial Furnishing Fabrics Standard was developed through a consensus process that included representatives from academia, the architecture and design community, product designers, end-users, regulatory agencies, federal and state government, certification bodies, environmental groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), manufacturers and suppliers.
Interested parties are invited to review the standard and submit comment before Monday, March 29, 2010. Input from the public is an important component of NSF International’s transparent, consensus-based sustainability standards development process. Allowing for public comment ensures openness and fair consideration for all stakeholders involved in the development and end-use of the product.
Click here to view the standard.
