Select casework and millwork that have sustainable attributes such as rapidly renewable, recycled content and sustainably managed forest material. Also look for products that are low-VOC and formaldehyde-free. In addition, consider ease of maintenance and durability when choosing any material.

O+M Tips

• Use cleaning chemicals and solutions that are Green Seal certified
• Dust with micro fiber cloth regularly

End of Life Tips

• If in good condition, furniture can be donated to organizations like Habitat for Humanity that will reuse them.
• To recycle old furniture contact the manufacturer or visit Earth911.com to determine the capacity of local facilities.

For alignment with LEED Standards

• Regional Materials: For credit achievement calculation, products sourced (extracted, manufactured, purchased) within 100 miles (160 km) of the project site are valued at 200% of their base contributing cost.
  • BD+C and ID+C MR: Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Sourcing of Raw Materials and Material Ingredients
  • O+M MR: Purchasing - Facility Maintenance and Renovation
• Certified Wood: Wood-based products and materials that are certified in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council's principles and criteria contribute to a credit.
  • BD+C and ID+C MR: Building Product Disclosure and Optimization - Sourcing of Raw Materials
  • O+M MR: Purchasing - Ongoing
• Resins: Composite wood and agrifiber products must be documented to have low formaldehyde emissions that meet the California Air Resources Board ATCM for formaldehyde requirements or contain no added formaldehyde resins.
  • BD+C and ID+C EQ: Low-Emitting Materials
  • O+M MR: Purchasing - Facility Maintenance and Renovation
• Low-Emitting Furniture: New furniture and furnishings must be tested in accordance with ANSI/BIFMA M7.1-2011 and comply with ANSI/BIFMA e3-2011 Sections 7.6.1 or 7.6.2.
  • ID+C EQ: Low-Emitting Materials
  • O+M EQ: Purchasing - Facility Maintenance and Renovation