The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association’s (KCMA) Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) recently earned approval from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited certification organization, Architectural Testing, In.

The Architectural Testing audit validates the ESP certification process. ESP incorporates a holistic approach to environmental responsibility within the cabinet industry. This announcement comes soon after the ANSI approval of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Green Building Standard(tm), which references ESP as the benchmark for cabinet standards.

“Successful completion of the third-party review is another important milestone for ESP,” said Dick Titus, KCMA executive vice president. “This audit further enhances the credibility of the program as the environmental benchmark for kitchen cabinets and bath vanities.”

The Architectural Testing audit included a comprehensive review of the ESP process, records and administration. All elements of the program received a favorable review.

As a criterion in the NAHB Green Building Standard, the first ANSI approved green building rating system for residential construction in the U.S. , ESP will set the standard for home owners looking to integrate eco-friendly cabinets into their home.

“Over 150 companies and brands now participate in KCMA’s ESP program, making products available at virtually every price point,” said John Swedeen, KCMA president, Starmark/Fieldstone Division of Norcraft Companies. “ESP manufacturers earn points for meeting environmental requirements pertaining not only to the product, but also to the manufacturing process.”