Congress passes formaldehyde limits for composite wood products

November 30, 2010

Supported by industry and environmental groups, the U.S. Congress has passed a bill limiting the amount of formalde-
hyde in hardwood plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard.

Introduced in late 2009, the bill bases formaldehyde limits on limits developed and enacted by the California Air Resources Board. Limits become effective as soon as 2011 and become more stringent over time; these dates depend on the U.S. EPA, however, which must develop regulations for enforcing the standards.

The bill covers only some composite wood products—it does not cover structural plywood or hardboard—and does not apply to other products, such as fabrics and insulation that contain formaldehyde.

Source: BuildingGreen LLC