A home is our safe haven, a place where we create a comfortable and secure environment for our loved ones. While aesthetically pleasing interior design is important, the true foundation of a high-quality home lies in health and safety. With the growing awareness of environmental health, the materials used in construction and interior decoration have become a major concern—particularly the topic of low-formaldehyde certification.

Understanding Formaldehyde (HCHO)
Formaldehyde is widely used for its antibacterial, mold-resistant, and preservative properties, making it a common component in many everyday products. However, excessive exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation to the nose and eyes, even if its presence is not easily detected by smell. The unpleasant odor often associated with new furniture or renovations may actually come from other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

What makes formaldehyde particularly concerning is its long-term release period, which can last anywhere from 3 to 15 years. Since formaldehyde emissions can pose health risks, global organizations and governments have established strict regulations to control its levels in household materials.

Health Risks of Formaldehyde Exposure
When indoor formaldehyde levels exceed 0.08 mg/m³, it can cause significant harm to human health, including:

Irritation to the eyes, nose, and mucous membranes
Allergic reactions, such as skin redness, itching, and rashes
Severe conditions, including liver inflammation, pneumonia, kidney damage, and even pregnancy complications
Formaldehyde in Wooden Furniture and Interior Materials
Wood-based materials commonly used in furniture and interior decoration—such as engineered wood, veneered panels, and composite boards—often contain adhesive resins that release formaldehyde. Additionally, construction adhesives, foam insulation, carpets, and synthetic fiberboards contribute to prolonged formaldehyde emissions in indoor spaces.

In Taiwan, interior renovations are often extensive, leading to excessive use of adhesives and bonding agents, further increasing the accumulation of formaldehyde in building materials.

Choosing Low-Formaldehyde Green Panels
Understanding the differences in formaldehyde emission standards allows homeowners to make informed decisions when selecting building materials. Bestwood offers a wide range of plywood and panel options that meet the highest environmental and health standards, including:

Taiwan Green Building Label & Eco-Friendly Certification
CNS F1-Grade Low-Formaldehyde Standard
U.S. CARB-P2 Compliance
EPA Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products

By choosing certified low-formaldehyde materials, homeowners can create a truly safe, eco-friendly, and healthy living environment for themselves and their families.

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