Sustainable low-emission paints are essential to better indoor air
A forward-thinking research & development team, carefully selected raw materials and reliable suppliers ensure that Tikkurila's interior products meet even the most demanding quality and sustainability requirements.
The new Classification of Indoor Climate 2018 (Sisäilmastoluokitus 2018), released in May, provides the target values, design guidance and product requirements for a healthy indoor environment. From a global perspective, the classification system is a unique: it encompasses over 4,500 low-emission products that qualify for the highest emission class, M1.
All Tikkurila products for interior surfaces are low-emission to begin with, so the new classification didn't require considerable actions. Developments in classification criteria and legislation are closely monitored nonetheless.
– The European Union has a lengthy list of VOC requirements that we had to consider, but we discovered that all our products meet the new criteria. That said, we pay close attention to the list in case of updates that might require action on our part, says Tikkurila's RDI Director for Finland Heidi Helkamo.
High standards for internal quality control
The Classification of Indoor Climate and the M1 Classifications for Building Material Emissions and Cleanliness of Air-handling Components have considerably improved Finnish indoor climates. M1 classified building materials emit extremely low levels of compounds into the atmosphere. They are approved in laboratory tests that measure organic compounds, among others. Odor emissions are evaluated by a small group of experts.
Tikkurila sets high standards for all purchased raw materials and suppliers.
– We only collaborate with responsible partners, who take quality and environmental standards seriously. We audit our raw material suppliers and by choosing the safest materials with the lowest emissions, we can ensure that our products meet the newest standards and ecolabel requirements, Helkamo explains.
Keeping ahead of legislation and authority requirements
The number of requirements for building products has increased over the years: not only is the product content under scrutiny, but also the effects its manufacturing has on the environment.
– The criteria for the EU Ecolabel and Swan Label are constantly tightened, as new VOC limits and harmful substances are added to the list. There are also new requirements for packaging materials, Helkamo says.
As sustainable, green buildings are becoming the new normal, products that ensure a good indoor climate are increasingly important. Tikkurila has strongly integrated sustainability in its strategy: the group has over 300 eco-labeled products that have been awarded warranties and certificates from national or international authorities.
– A proactive approach in research and development paired with uncompromising quality control ensure that we have the ability to provide sustainable solutions now and tomorrow.
World Green Building Week (24–30 September 2018) is an annual event that motivates and empowers us all to deliver greener buildings.
For more information, please contact:
Tikkurila Group
Heidi Helkamo
RDI Director, Finland
Tel. +358 20 191 2332
heidi.helkamo@tikkurila.com
Päivi Kivilä
Senior Manager, Communications and Sustainability
Tel. +358 40 533 4922
paivi.kivila@tikkurila.com
Sustainable Nordicness
Tikkurila is a leading Nordic paint company with expertise that spans decades. We develop premium products and services that provide our customers with quality that will stand the test of time and weather. We operate in around ten countries and our 3,000 dedicated professionals share the joy of building a vivid future through surfaces that make a difference. In 2017, our revenue totaled EUR 582 million. The company is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki. Nordic quality from start to finish since 1862.
www.tikkurilagroup.com
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