This post is part of the Green Materials Report series. GBE is providing information on various building materials and what makes them green. Each post focuses on one material. We will be looking at the ingredients in the material, how it is used, what makes it green, and any green product certifications that it has earned. We hope to develop a database of information to help consumers make informed choices about what goes in their buildings. Enjoy the series!
Wall Coverings
In past posts in this series, we have focused on only one material at a time. Â This post, however, will look at two sustainable options for wall coverings. Â Both have been Cradle to Cradle certified and have documentation that makes them eligible for use for LEED Materials and Resources credits.
Bark House Poplar Panels for interior use
What Makes Them Green: No more than one in a thousand trees will yield a sheet of bark large enough to become a bark panel! Â Bark is removed from reclaimed trees in one unending and unbroken cylinder. Â The bark is flattened, kiln-dried, and cut into panels for use over plywood or drywall. Â No two are ever alike.
Green Product Certifications / Declarations: Panels for interior use are Cradle to Cradle Silver Certified and meet California VOC standards. No environmental product declaration or health product declaration was found for this product.
Biobased Xorel
What Makes It Green: The world’s first bio-based high performance textile was developed by Carnegie Fabrics. Â It can be used as a wall covering, wrapped around panels, or for upholstery. Â It is available in a wide range of colors and textures.
Green Product Certifications / Declarations: Xorel is Cradle to Cradle Gold Certified and Indoor Air Gold Certified. No environmental product declaration was found for this product. Â The manufacturer provides environmental information based on its own tests.
Xorel color Dash HPDÂ (health product declaration).
Sources | Images: Highland Craftsmen and Carnegie Fabrics.
