Two years ago we announced that 3M had launched the PVC free Envision range of non-PVC wrap films for solvent/eco-solvent printing as well as an over-laminate. 3M have now announced that ten of the Envision range has been awarded
Greenguard Gold Certification.
Greenguard Gold Certification requires that products meet some of the world’s most rigorous, third-party testing standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor environments. The Gold certification includes additional factors to account for sensitive individuals (such as children and the elderly) and helps ensure that a product is acceptable for use in environments like schools and healthcare facilities. UL Environment, a unit of Underwriters Laboratories, administers the certification.
3M products now covered by Greenguard Gold Certification include:
•3M Envision Print Wrap Films LX480Cv3 and SV480Cv3
•3M Envision Wrap Overlaminates 8548G and 8549L
•3M Envision Print Films 48-20, 48-20R, 48C-20 and 48C-20R
•3M Envision Overlaminates 8048G and 8050M
These 10 Envision branded films and overlaminates are all non-PVC materials, meaning they are made without using polyvinyl chloride.
“Receiving the Greenguard Gold Certification is a very exciting step for us, as it recognizes 3M’s commitment to provide better products for the environment and for our customers,” said Maureen Tholen, sustainability director for 3M. “UL is a prominent organization with values that align with what we care about here at 3M. We hope these products will be the first of many to receive this prestigious certification.”
Greenguard Gold Certified products must comply with strict emissions levels for more than 360 VOCs and total chemical emissions, and meet numerous other technical requirements. (A summary of the allowable emission limits for Greenguard Certification and Greenguard Gold Certification can be found here.(link is external)) Periodic testing and recertification are required to demonstrate ongoing compliance even after the initial certification. Certified products qualify as low-emitting materials under the LEEDv4 standard, and can help contribute to LEED credits.
"3M is proud to be a leader in meeting the world’s growing need for sustainable solutions," said Cordell Hardy, technical director for 3M Commercial Solutions. "We are honored to be recognized with the Greenguard Gold Certification for our range of more sustainably produced 3M Envision Graphic Films and Overlaminates, and we will continue to look for ways to develop and use greener products and business practices within our industry."
The 3M Envision brand, which includes the 10 products now certified under Greenguard Gold as well as other high-performance products with a sustainability edge, offers graphics manufacturers and installers a dynamic portfolio of coloured and printable films, wrap films, substrates and overlaminates in a broad range of finishes and textures. These leading-edge, versatile products are suitable for applications on vehicles, walls, windows, floors, illuminated signs, smooth and textured surfaces, and more.
3M Graphics
www.3M.com/Graphics.
