ESP certification requirements are based on currently obtainable materials and will be amended as new, improved materials become available.   The specifications have been revised twice since the program’s inception in 2006 to add more products and make requirements more restrictive.

In January 2009, the criteria for ESP certification includes adoption of the new California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards for composite wood products and requires that the manufacturer have a written policy stating a firm commitment to protect the environment. 

Beginning in January 2010, (1) ESP participants agree to report to KCMA within 60 days of any local, state, or federal citation in excess of $50,000 per violation explaining the circumstances of the citation and violation.  Upon final determination by the regulator that the violation was willful, grossly negligent or reckless, the ESP Committee (subject to KCMA Board approval) may terminate for a period of no less than 12 months, the ESP participant’s participation in the ESP program.  The ESP participant shall have the right to a review hearing regarding such termination by a third party arbitrator following ANSI arbitration procedures.  The cost of such arbitration will be borne by the ESP participant.
 (2)  Eighty percent (80%) of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, hardboard and plywood used in the cabinets meet the formaldehyde emissions level of the California Air Resources Compwood ATCM and are third-party certified to meet low formaldehyde emission standards (percentage increased from 75%). 
(3) Eighty (80%) percent of particleboard, MDF and hardboard used in the cabinets contains 100% recycled or recovered fiber content (increased from 75%).
In order to be awarded ESP certification, manufacturers must earn points, which are awarded based on compliance with these criteria:
 

Click here to download a copy of the KCMA ESP 03-10 guidelines for completing the appliation. 

Air Quality 

• 80% of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, and plywood used in the cabinets must meet the formaldehyde emission level of the California Air Resources Compwood ATCM and must be third-party certified to meet low formaldehyde emission standards
• 80% of hardboard used in the cabinets must be third-party certified to meet low formaldehyde standards.
• 75% of cabinets must be finished domestically. Finishes emit no greater hazardous air pollutants than allowed by local plant operating permits

Product Resource Management

• 80% of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, and hardboard used in cabinets must contain 100% recycled or recovered fiber content
• Manufacturers utilize an annual, written training plan to educate their hardwood suppliers of their preference for purchasing certified lumber
• Hardwoods, softwoods and plywood purchased are certified through a recognized sustainable forestry program

Process Resource Management 

• Manufacturer has a comprehensive recycling program for process wastes
• Manufacturer has a program for tracking and reducing process wastes with documented goals and reports
• Manufacturer uses process by-products to generate alternative energy
• Manufacturer has a documented energy conservation program

Environmental Stewardship 

• Manufacturer is required to have a written policy stating a firm commitment to environmental quality
• Manufacturer has an Environmental Management System
• Manufacturer reviews environmental practices and policies of its key vendors and contractors
• Manufacturer has a documented program that promotes the use of renewable/recycled materials

Community Relations 

• Manufacturer demonstrates community involvement and leadership through service or charitable organizations
• Manufacturer observes all federal, state, and local environmental requirements
• ESP participants agree to report to KCMA with 60 days of any local, state or federal citation in excess of $50,000 per violation explaining the circumstances of the citation or violation.  Such citation or violation could lead to termination from the program.
  

Points are awarded for meeting each of these criteria. Manufacturers must earn at least 80 of a possible 105 points and must earn points from each category to be certified. Click here to find a list of certified companies.