Using an LCA approach to evaluate green labels

While the green building materials industry has flourished, the labeling of green materials is disparate, confusing, and complex. Many certification programs are available for various products used in buildings such as Green Seal, Energy Star, the Carpet and Rug Institute green label, Blue Angel and many others. Many labels, such as flammable and toxic, are often based on single criteria and may be required by law for a product. Marketing schemes often involve product information with generic claims of environmentally safe, recyclable and biodegradable. Green labels based on a variety of criteria are provided by several organizations and such products are increasingly becoming popular in the residential building sector. Emerging building products have the potential for providing affordable housing, energy efficiency, reducing waste, and conserving resources. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a tool utilized to holistically evaluate the innovative trends in the construction industry.