Furntech-AFRDI enthusiastically embraces the concept of sustainability through creation of a Standard for furniture manufacture, introduced in September 2009. To us, sustainable practices are fundamental to the future of our industry, and to the environment. Adopting sustainability as a working philosophy is also practical: commercial furniture manufacturers more and more must conform to "green" specifications and tender requirements in both the commercial and government sectors. Non-compliance means that, in time, they may potentially be excluded from much of the marketplace.
Sustainability is a broad concept, but it includes consideration of ethical sourcing of raw materials, responsible use of water and energy, minimizing waste and, through better design, enhancing the potential for longer useful life and ultimately, recycling.
Furntech-AFRDI’s Sustainability Standard 150 complements our already enviable reputation for testing and certification, meaning that furniture approved by us will carry an even greater promise of longevity, quality, and environmental soundness.
In June 2010 the AFRDI 150 Standard incorporated the following modifications:
- Modified nomenclature for levels of awardable certification
- Additional wording in Timber Products sub-section 4B.2A
- Additional wording in Hazardous Substances criterion 4B.3.1
AFRDI Standard 150 (issued June 2010) certification is applicable to commercial furniture and corresponds with furniture related Material Calculators in Green Star rating tools (chairs, tables, workstations, storage, joinery and loose furniture).
The AFRDI Standard 150 awards 3 levels of certification, which are recognised by the GBCA as follows:
- AFRDI Green Tick Level C - Level C recognition;
- AFRDI Green Tick Level B - Level B recognition; and
- AFRDI Green Tick Level A - Level A recognition.
Information Kit on AFRDI Green Tick Sustainability Assessments
Assessment Request Form
Publications
AFRDI Green Tick scheme recognised by GBCA 
Specifying commercial furniture? Make sure it’s AFRDI certified
What Furntech-AFRDI is saying about sustainability - July 2009
AFRDI 150 Sustainability Standard flyer - as seen in DQ magazine 
