A new, revised standard for Adhesives, Fillers and Sealants from Good Environmental Choice Australia is now out for public comment.
GECA chose to update its adhesives standard late last year, reflecting increased demand from manufacturers to demonstrate the environmental credentials of their products. The new standard has updated criteria and now recognises joint sealants and fillers, with a stronger focus on industrial and commercial adhesives.
Key criteria include:
- Products must not contain substances which have been classified as known carcinogens, toxins, mutagens, or toxic to reproduction.
- Heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, chromium, arsenic and others, must not be intentionally added to the product.
- Products which may lead to the release of respirable powders/dust (e.g. products such as fillers which may be sanded) must not contain any added Crystalline Silica (Quartz) or Mica. If used, effective measures must be in place to control exposure of workers.
- The final product must only contain limited amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Formaldehyde, or formaldehyde-shedding substances, must not be intentionally added to a product.
- Emissions to air and water during the manufacturing process must be effectively managed and documented. There must also be waste minimisation and energy management procedures in place.
- Limits on substances toxic to aquatic life.
Following the public comment period, the finalised standard will be submitted to the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). Once approved, products certified under it can contribute to achieving points under the relevant GBCA’s Green Star tools.
GECA welcomes comments from the public and industry professionals until 31 August. A draft copy of the standard is available here.
Please submit comments and feedback to standards@geca.org.au.
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