While we all need clothes to wear and furnishings in our homes and workplaces, textile products can have negative impacts on the environment and human health. So, what does it mean for a textile to be environmentally and socially preferable – as well as safer for your health?

Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global technical services company, TÜV Rheinland, as part of a joint commitment to improve sustainable products and services offerings worldwide.

Paints and coatings can have significant impacts on the environment and human health, depending on what ingredients and components they contain. For example, if a paint uses organic solvents rather than a water base, it will release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the surrounding air. Solvent-based paints can also contain about 50 percent more embodied energy.

Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) is pleased to welcome Patrick Walker as the new Chair of GECA.Patrick has been a member of the GECA Board of Directors for over four years, as well as being Chair of GECA’s Business Development Committee. He is also the CEO of the Australian Sports Foundation, a not-for-profit that raises money for community and grassroots sport.