An Implementation Strategy for VOC Emissions Eco-Labeling in Wood Products for the Chilean Market with International Projection

This study examines the global wood products market to propose an eco-label for the Chilean sector with an international orientation. A national prior certification framework and governance structure were established, aligned with international regulations to ensure compliance with target market standards. By doing so, the initiative aims to expedite the entry of Chilean products into foreign markets while incentivizing the supply and demand for sustainable goods locally. Through a historical review of eco-labels and an assessment of environmental declarations in the timber industry, this research identified critical regulations and designed a comprehensive management model. The findings reveal that existing certifications predominantly focus on indoor air quality (IAQ), specifically regarding volatile organic compound (VOC) and formaldehyde (HCHO) emissions in wood products for the construction sector (CLT, GLULAM, panels, etc.) using fossil-based adhesives. This study concluded that governance should be spearheaded by the Chilean Environment Ministry in collaboration with a specialized technical committee. Consequently, as a result, a hybrid (quantitative and qualitative) eco-label is proposed to communicate emissions limit compliance, enabling Chilean firms to report it emissions, prior to initiating formal international certification processes.