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Ohio Sparking Fuel Cell Drive

Oct. 10, 2011

Demand for new energy sources is urgent and the goal to reduce foreign energy dependence through the use of alternative energy sources has never been more important.

Fuel cells are just one way to offer a more efficient method to convert readily available domestic fuels, like natural gas, into electricity while cutting fuel consumption by 50-66%, producing only heat and water as byproducts.

GREENGUARD Launches New Formaldehyde Free Certification

The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute now operates a formaldehyde free verification service for manufacturers who participate in their certification program.

Formaldehyde, one of many chemicals that can off-gas from interior products, is a known human carcinogen. However, “formaldehyde free” labels are frequently misused and misunderstood, according to GREENGUARD.

To earn the label, manufacturers must demonstrate that a product doesn’t emit formaldehyde at levels greater than what occurs naturally in the outdoor environment, provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for each component, and attest that the product contains no formaldehyde, formaldehyde polymers, or formaldehyde precursors.

Using the GREENGUARD certification as the basis for the formaldehyde free label indicates that the certified product has low or no emissions of other VOCs as well.

For more information, read the November issue of BUILDINGS, which will examine off-gassing of formaldehyde and other chemicals.

Ohio is in the top five states when it comes to fuel cell development, according to a report by Fuel Cells 2000, an organization that promotes fuel cell technology. California, Connecticut, New York, and South Carolina also made the cut as leaders in moving the industry forward.

“Ohio is committed to capitalizing on its strength in fuel cells to create and attract 21st century businesses and jobs,” says Pat Valente, executive director of the Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition. “Ohio is not only home to world-class companies in all phases of fuel cell development – from R&D to all aspects of the supply chain to final product manufacturing – Ohio also has the added advantage of cross-sector support from business, government, and educational institutions to further innovation and commercialization opportunities.”

Click to learn more about fuel cells.

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