Before you buy that new sofa, chair, curtain, or desk, wouldn’t it be nice to find out exactly how much it’s going to outgas in your home?

Since 1999, Greenguard Certification Program, an Atlanta-based nonprofit, has been monitoring commercial products for air quality emissions. Clients—including Lexmark, Hewlett-Packard, and Steelcase—come to the firm seeking third-party verification that their products are as eco-friendly as they say. An Atlanta laboratory tests the products and turns the results over to Greenguard, which has established a universal set of air quality standards based on criteria from government agencies. If the product passes testing on an ongoing basis, it is awarded Greenguard Certification and is also listed in Greenguard’s product guide, available at www.greenguard.org.

The service has been such a hit that testing on home furnishings could come as early as next year. “I actually don’t see a limit,” says marketing manager Henning Bloech. “The markets are going to drive it. If the consumers demand low-emitting products over others and voice an opinion, the manufacturers will comply.”

—Lori Tobias

FENG SHUI, NATURALLY
Monthly Predictions

One of the most powerful and profound layers of feng shui is known as Heaven Energy, or the Flying Stars. The direction of the door most often used, typically the front door, is a significant influence because you carry its energetic effect as you move throughout your environment.

NOVEMBER

HOUSE FACING EAST
This should be one of your better months. Hang a moving metal wind chime or metal-chiming clock at your door this entire year.