A 'nutrition-label' for products, Declare is transforming the building products industry by providing a clear and informative manner in which to disclose product ingredients, free of charge, to consumers and designers. In 2014 Laminex New Zealand, with Strandboard, was the first Australasian business to be declared 'Red List Free,' denoting the most environmentally responsible level of products suitable for use in the Living Building Challenge.

Strandboard is a high density reconstituted wood panel, bonded with moisture resistant resin and wax, specifically formulated for use as a cost-effective and durable overlay flooring solution for residential and commercial settings. It can also be used for wall panels, ceilings and stairs, and as an overlay where a decorative look is needed. Manufactured in New Zealand, Strandboard has impressive environmental credentials including an E0 low formaldehyde rating and FSC certification.

Used in the re-fit of the Excelso Coffee Roastery and Café in Tauranga, Strandboard was chosen for its environmental credentials, including its 'Red List Free' status, providing the fresh new look that the Excelso team were looking for. NZ made and FSC certified, Strandboard met the project's requirements for an environmentally preferable product. The team from Excelso didn't want a wooden plank look, so the strand appearance of Strandboard appealed. Other natural materials such as recycled coffee sacks and wooden spools were used for the décor in the café.

"We are extremely proud to be leading the field in Australasia when it comes to being transparent about what's in our products," says Rob Jackson, National Marketing Manager, Laminex NZ. Alongside Strandboard, Laminex Solid Surface was also awarded 'Red List Free' status in 2015.

In an effort to make board products more accessible to architects and designers, Laminex New Zealand introduced a limited number of Trade Essentials samples boxes in late 2015, featuring samples of Strandboard, Strandfloor, Plywood and a number of other key board products.