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In
the past, the public has sometimes inaccurately
linked new carpet with the effects of poor indoor
air quality. While extensive research has shown that
there is no link between carpet and ill-health
effects, industry manufacturers are committed to
providing only the most environmentally-responsible
products.
Dr. Alan Hedge, professor of design and environmental
analysis at Cornell University, asserts that carpet
can improve indoor air quality due to its
filter-like properties.
"Carpets in schools don't compromise indoor air
quality, says Cornell researcher"
"CU expert: Carpets in schools benefit indoor air
quality"
The industry has taken many steps to ensure carpet's
positive role in the indoor environment:
The CRI's Indoor Air Quality Testing and Labeling Program, a voluntary
industry effort developed in cooperation with the
EPA, ensures that the carpet bearing the CRI green
label has been tested, does not exceed the criteria
for the testing program and minimizes the impact on
the indoor environment.
Installation guidelines for consumers and installers have been developed
to maintain good indoor air quality during the
installation of new carpet. With adequate air
ventilation, the minimal emissions from carpet will
dissipate within the first 48 to 72 hours of
installation.
The industry emphasizes consistent guidelines for carpet
maintenance to ensure good indoor air quality.
Through research, the industry has confirmed these environmental facts:
Carpet holds dust particles, keeping them out of the
breathing zone until they can be properly extracted
by effective vacuuming and other cleaning methods a
benefit to those who are allergy prone.
Formaldehyde is not used in the manufacturing of
carpet, contrary to popular belief.
The latex used in carpet construction is synthetic
latex and does not cause the allergic,
dermatological reaction associated with natural
latex.
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