The nation’s producers of recreation vehicles (RVs) have embraced the same tough new formaldehyde standard that California has adopted, and will require it nationwide.

On June 12, RVIA's board of directors set an effective date for member manufacturers to begin using wood products that meet the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) new formaldehyde emissions level, as a mandatory condition of membership.

Starting Jan. 1, 2009, RV makers that are members of RVIA will be required to build all units with wood products that comply with the CARB standard’s emission limits. By July 1, 2010, they must use wood that has been certified by an appropriate third party as meeting the CARB standard.

As a result of this schedule, RVIA will require its members to use CARB compliant wood nationwide a full 18 months before California phases in its requirement.

“We believe our adoption of the California requirement nationwide underscores our commitment to RV owners and their ability to use our products with confidence,” said RVIA President Richard Coon. “It also demonstrates the continuing commitment to the environment that our customers expect of the products that enable them to enjoy the outdoors.”

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring chemical that is used to manufacture wood products commonly found in homes and RVs. When fully phased in, CARB expects the new standard to reduce formaldehyde emissions by approximately 57 percent from the wood products it covers: hardwood plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard.