Adhesives and Sealants Designed for the Green Building ProcessA growing number of builders and remodelers are adopting green building processes to promote a healthier environment, minimize global impact, and improve the satisfaction and living environments of their customers. Adhesives and sealants are an important part of the green building process in two areas: by improving a building's energy efficiency and by minimizing the effects on the environment and air quality.
Currently, fifteen states have passed or are in the process of creating regulations that limit VOC-emissions, and several other states are following suit. The chemicals, which are contained in adhesives and sealants, emit into the atmosphere, resulting in air pollution that can also irritate allergies, asthmatic conditions, and potentially lead to health risks after continual exposure. Two national organizations leading the green building initiative, which have also included criteria specific to the use of adhesives and sealants, are the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), with their Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council, with their LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System®. Professional builders, remodelers, engineers, product manufacturers, architects and consumers alike are using these guidelines to create new approaches to construction and remodeling projects that will benefit today and the world of tomorrow. OSI® GreenSeries™ Brochure [PDF] |