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Step inside a home, classroom, or daycare and pause for a moment. You want it to feel safe and supportive of health, but here is something many people do not realize. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends 90% of their time indoors. Even more surprising, scientific research shows that the air inside can sometimes be more polluted than the air outside.
This becomes especially important when you consider how much time children and families spend indoors. Furniture, flooring, and the products we bring into our spaces all impact the air we breathe. Many everyday materials release small amounts of chemicals into the air, and over time, these emissions can add up in enclosed environments.
We can make more intentional choices to support healthier indoor spaces. Clean air should be part of every environment where kids learn and play. One way to do this is by looking for products that are rigorously tested for low chemical emissions. Certifications like UL GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US help identify products that meet established safety standards for both content and emissions. Choosing these products can support better air quality and overall wellbeing. This is particularly important for children, whose growing bodies can make them more sensitive to environmental factors.
Discover how we design with safety in mind in our blog.
Certified furniture and materials are a proactive step that schools can take toward sustainability and student health. Beyond reducing chemical exposure, these certifications also signal a commitment to long-term environmental responsibility. For educators, they provide a research-backed way to make informed purchasing decisions. They also align with broader initiatives around green classrooms and wellness-focused spaces.
Just as important as the products we choose is how we engage students in caring for the spaces they inhabit. Classrooms are a training ground for environmentally responsible habits, especially when kids are encouraged to think about their role in protecting the planet. Schools and daycares also play a meaningful role in encouraging sustainable practices and helping children understand how small, everyday choices contribute to a larger impact.
Over time, these efforts nurture a mindset of stewardship. Students grow into curious thinkers who are better prepared to take on challenges related to sustainability and protecting resources, especially when the adults around them model safe and responsible choices.
As we celebrate Earth Day this week, we can start by creating healthier indoor spaces. Choosing low-emission products and making mindful decisions indoors can have a lasting impact on our health and the environment.
