Formaldehyde was reclassified by the International Agency for Cancer Research (IARC) in 2004 from “probable human carcinogen” to “known human carcinogen.”
The cutting of trees and unsustainable management of forests lead to the loss of nearly 36 million acres of natural forests each year - an area bigger than the state of New York.
EcoCraft is Eco-Friendly
Cabinetry can be “green” because it is healthier for consumers, or because its production has a lower impact on the environment, or because it’s simply more durable so it doesn’t have to be replaced as often and pile up in our landfills. EcoCraft is all of these.
EcoCraft Is Healthier
Our cabinetry will not pollute indoor air. There are two reasons why cabinetry can be one of the most dangerous sources of indoor air pollution. First, the plywood or fiberboard used to make most cabinets is held together with toxic, urea formaldehyde-based glue. Second, traditional finishes (stains, lacquers, paints) contain poisonous chemicals known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Both formaldehyde and the VOCs in finishes will emit fumes, or “outgas,” into the air. Research has shown that this outgassing continues for many years after cabinets have been installed. Some people may not experience acute symptoms when exposed to these emissions, but everyone is affected to some degree.
EcoCraft cabinetry is made with low and no-VOC, water-based finishes that are healthier and safer for you and your family. The plywood and MDF (medium density fiberboard) we use are made with urea formaldehyde-free glues, so emissions will not pollute your indoor air.
EcoCraft Conserves Natural Resources
We use sustainable and durable building materials. Over-logging contributes to the destruction and degradation of forests worldwide. This affects not only the amount of habitat available for wildlife, but also contributes to global warming. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), an international, not-for-profit organization, has developed internationally recognized standards for responsible forest management. FSC certifies that forests are managed in a way that protects water, soil, and wildlife, while allowing people to continue to work, live and earn an income from the forest.
Because EcoCraft uses FSC certified wood products, you can be confident that your consumer dollars are supporting environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world's forests.
We minimize material consumption and construction waste. Millions of tons of wood waste are generated each year in this country. In fact, wood comprises the largest percentage of the residential construction and demolition debris waste stream – approximately 40 to 50 percent of residential new construction debris – according to the National Association of Home Builders Research Center. Virtually all of this debris is deposited into landfills.
At EcoCraft, we use as our standard cabinet a European style that eliminates the need for solid wood face frames, thereby requiring less lumber. Our design software optimizes material usage, reduces waste, and provides the client with 3-D project views, allowing us to confirm the design and avoid wasteful rework. The materials we choose are reasonably priced, strong and long-lasting. This reduces construction waste that might otherwise go into a landfill when the cabinets are torn out and replaced. Lastly, EcoCraft uses reclaimed lumber when possible. This type of material is available only on a sporadic basis and can come at a high price because of the labor required to salvage the wood. If you have an interest in using salvaged or reclaimed wood for your cabinetry or millwork job, we'll be happy to talk with you about options.
We are local. One way to make a consumer choice that represents less energy consumption is by buying from local sources. When you purchase from a national chain store, chances are your items have been transported a long distance. Choosing EcoCraft cabinetry, manufactured in the East Bay, will eliminate the burning of fossil fuel required to truck your cabinets across the country.
We want to do more. We are committed to doing what we can to provide our customers with eco-friendly options in cabinetry and millwork. Within a few years, we plan to power our manufacturing operations and our vehicles with renewable energy sources. In the meantime, we will continue to participate in green forums, to contribute to green activities, to stay informed about relevant cutting-edge technologies and products, and to support others working in the field of green building.
If you would like information on other green-build aspects of your project, we would be happy to recommend local architects, contractors and/or other professionals who have the appropriate expertise.
EcoCraft Is Healthier