Blue Angel

German certification for products and services that are environmentally-friendly.

In 2006, noraplan® standard floorings were the first resilient floor coverings to be awarded the Blue Angel under the new UZ 120 qualification guidelines. The label protects both the environment and consumers by disclosing important product information. This is a big achievement for flooring, as it comprises a large surface area and has a high potential for polluting interior air.

Many building products and furnishings—from paints and lacquers to furniture and mattresses—have been awarded the Blue Angel eco-label. Low-emission floor coverings made of wood or wood-based materials, plastics, natural and synthetic rubber, linoleum or cork are eligible to receive the Blue Angel. Products that emit particularly low quantities of organic compounds and formaldehyde into the air and are free of carcinogenic nitrosamines receive this eco-label award.

Resilient floor coverings (RAL-UZ 120) must meet the following criteria:

• Emissions (VOC).

• Content on carcinogenic N-nitrosamines.

• Exclusion of raw materials, that are classified according to EC-directives as very toxic.

• Exclusion of toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, hazardous for reproduction, embryo toxic.

• Exclusion of halogenated organic compounds and organic flame-retardants.

• Exclusion of phthalates.

• Compliance with usability according to DIN EN standards.

Awarded since 1978, Blue Angel is the first and oldest label concerning environmental matters for products and services worldwide. The environmental label jury, an independent decision making body comprised of representatives from environmental and consumer associations, trade unions, industry, local authorities, trade, science, media and churches certify the products. Blue Angel labels exist for 80 product categories with 3,700 products and services of 800 companies. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety holds the label.