geenVOC

GeenVOC is a term used in Dutch-language contexts to indicate products that contain no or very low amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The concept is applied to a range of consumer goods, including paints, coatings, adhesives, cleaners, and other building materials, with the aim of improving indoor air quality and reducing emissions during use and curing.

Definition and scope: VOCs include a wide range of carbon-based chemicals that off-gas at room temperature. Because VOC limits vary by product category and jurisdiction, geenVOC is not a single universal standard. In practice, a geenVOC claim signifies adherence to specific limits defined by manufacturers, retailers, or third-party programs, and is often aligned with national or regional low-VOC policies.

Certification and verification: Some companies pursue geenVOC certification offered by independent bodies; verification may involve laboratory testing of product formulations and labeling audits. Third-party verification helps provide consistency across products and brands, though standards can differ between programs.

Adoption and impact: GeenVOC labeling is most common in the Netherlands and parts of Europe, where it forms part of broader low-VOC and green-building initiatives. Proponents highlight potential improvements in indoor air quality, occupational safety, and regulatory compliance. Critics point to challenges such as inconsistent definitions across jurisdictions, the risk of mislabeling, and the possibility of substituting one hazard for another in complex chemical formulations.

See also: Volatile organic compounds, Low-VOC, Environmental labeling, Green chemistry.