Laminates are versatile surface materials used to finish furniture, walls and worktops. As environmental awareness grows, it is increasingly important to choose products that meet the requirements of sustainable development. The sustainability of laminates can be assessed through a number of international and national environmental certificates. These include FSC and PEFC, which demonstrate the responsible origin of the wood raw material, and M1 emission classification and EU Ecolabel, which relate to the product's emissions and life-cycle environmental impacts.
These certifications provide consumers and designers with a clear tool to choose surface materials that are safe, durable and environmentally sustainable.
How do the different environmental certificates work in the context of laminates?
The environmental certification shows that the laminate has been produced responsibly, from the raw materials to the recycling after use. Here are the most common and important certifications for laminate products:
- FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
Ensure that the wood-based raw materials used for the laminate come from responsibly managed forests. The FSC label is an internationally recognised and respected mark of ecological origin.
- PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification)
Another important forest certificate, which supports small forest owners in particular. It is particularly common in Europe and also indicates responsible use of wood raw material.
- M1 emission classification
A Finnish classification focusing on indoor air quality. M1 certified laminate releases very low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it ideal for indoor applications such as kitchens, offices and educational institutions. - EU Ecolabel (EU environmental label) The European Union's official eco-label, which takes into account the environmental impact of a product throughout its life cycle. It covers the manufacturing process, emissions during use and the recyclability of the product.
Do environmental certificates affect the quality and price of laminate?
Certified laminates are not only more environmentally friendly, they are often of higher quality. Certificates require rigorous production processes that ensure the end product is consistent, durable and safe to use. For example, the M1 rating requires low emission levels, making the product safe for spaces where people spend a lot of time.
The price difference between certified and non-certified laminates has narrowed in recent years as responsible manufacturing has become more common. Eco-labelled laminates may initially be slightly more expensive, but in the long run they offer better durability and lower environmental costs, often with lower maintenance requirements.
Which certifications should you pay attention to for different applications?
The importance of different certificates is highlighted for different uses:
| Certificate | Purpose | Benefit from |
| FSC & PEFC | All laminates with wood-based materials | Responsible and traceable wood origin |
| M1 | Indoor areas where clean indoor air is required (e.g. schools, homes, offices) | Low emissions, good indoor air quality |
| EU Ecolabel | All applications, especially projects that take into account the whole life cycle | Comprehensive environmental impact assessment |
In private buildings, visual appeal and ecology can be emphasised, while in public buildings, indoor air quality or the recyclability of materials may be more important.
Responsibility starts with material choices
When planning a building or interior design project, knowing about environmental certificates helps you make informed and responsible choices. A laminate with multiple certifications - such as FSC or PEFC, together with M1 and EU Ecolabel - provides strong evidence that the product is safe, sustainable and manufactured in an ecological way.
Me Lorella we are committed to providing high quality and environmentally responsible surface materials. Our range includes products that meet the most stringent environmental requirements and are suitable for a wide variety of applications. Our experts will be happy to help you choose the right materials for your project.