Innovating Sustainability: an industry first
Elevating the sustainability credentials of our client’s workspace with our custom-made, eco-friendly timber veneered panel. Tested and verified to meet the latest industry standards.
The Background
As part of strides to create healthier, more sustainable building practices, the construction industry has developed a number of well-known, and well-utilised standards, in order to measure, monitor and assess our projects.
At Thorpes Joinery, we understand the pivotal role construction materials play in the overall impact of a building on both the environment and its occupants, and look for opportunities to lessen or negate this impact wherever possible.
One such opportunity was presented on one of our projects ‘Project Emerald’, which carried a clear and ambitious target: to create the country’s healthiest workspace.
Clearly, BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and WELL building standards were going to take centre stage, with “Outstanding” and “Platinum” expected at a minimum.
The Challenge
The “Concepts” of the WELL Building Standard place huge importance on air quality
As part of our shared commitment with Overbury and our client, we sought key areas for innovation within the project, and one critical challenge identified was the use of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Commonly found in many construction materials, especially lacquers, VOCs can contribute to indoor air pollution, posing potential health risks and environmental harm.
For example, a recent study* found that after the application of lacquer VOC concentration increased greatly, with the amount released jumping by over 200%.
Efforts to address this issue have been limited, prompting us to focus on creating our own solution.
“We set out into unchartered territory in many ways, and weren’t even sure that what we were striving for was even attainable!
However, we worked hard to get things right and we are delighted that this not only matches but exceeds the regulations”
The Development
The challenge of sourcing Class B fire rated lacquer that meets BREEAM and WELL standards prompted a shift towards product testing.
We set out to achieve what we believe to be an industry-first: a veneered, MDF panel finished in a Class B, water-based lacquer that would meet the stringent requirements of both WELL and BREEAM.
This process involved creating a unique build-up for the product, before sending for testing in Denmark with Eurofins: the world market leader for VOC emission chamber testing.
Once there, it was subjected to a 28-day chamber test.
This test showcased a VOC level well below the current thresholds required for both BREEAM and WELL.
The product also demonstrated compliance with various regulations, including French VOC Regulation, French CMR components, Italian CAM Edilizia, ABG/AgBB, Belgian Regulation, and Indoor Air Comfort standards.
The Impact
Tom Friel (Project Manager) and Rich Moore (Sustainability Manager) with the simple, yet effective panels.
The introduction of our timber veneered panel marks a significant milestone in our offering to the commercial fit-out market.
Beyond the technical achievements, the development process emphasized a careful sourcing approach, leveraging supplier relationships and industry knowledge spanning decades.
Our commitment to sustainability is evident in the responsible sourcing certificates for the substrate and veneerwhich are FSC Compliant.
Additionally, the adhesives and lacquer components are procured from companies with 'ISO 14001 integrated management systems’ certificates, affirming their dedication to sustainable operations.
The implications of this innovation extend far beyond the technical realm.
The new product not only meets high standards for emissions and fire regulations but also contributes to creating a cleaner workspace without compromising aesthetics or performance.
Architects, designers, and contractors now have access to a sustainable material that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of their projects but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
Sustainability in Every Layer: Thorpes Joinery's Commitment to Excellence
Explore how Thorpes Joinery's innovative timber veneered panel is setting new standards for sustainability in commercial fit-outs.
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