Environmental update

Abstract

The indoor air quality (IAQ) issue is discussed. New carpets have been linked to a variety of ill health effects by the media, and the US Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) has established a carpet testing procedure leading to its Green Label programme for new carpet products. Carpet products meeting the standard are allowed to carry the CRI indoor air quality label. The CRI's voluntary testing programme is discussed, and other ways in which the industry has addressed environmental concerns are examined, including 'green' chemicals and processes, and dyes and colorants.