Raising the Bar, Lowering Our Footprint: Sustainability at Modernfold Chicago

At Modernfold Chicago, there are a few things we’re passionate about: collaborating with our customers and partners, transforming spaces, and doing it all in a planet-friendly way. For us, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a core commitment we bring to every project. We’re always looking for ways to reduce our environmental impact. With each wall we build, we’re not just shaping interiors but helping shape a more sustainable future. Here’s a look at how we’re raising the bar on sustainable practices while keeping our footprint as light as possible.

Supporting LEED® Standards

LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the most widely used green building rating system, and its standards are set by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). As proud USGBC members, Modernfold and Skyfold support the LEED® initiative, setting the standard for sustainable building. Their products contribute to LEED credits in multiple categories—recycled content, rapidly renewable materials, low-emitting materials, and more—offering builders and architects essential points toward green certifications.

Because of the customizable nature of their products, LEED credits will vary. To discover the LEED credits available for your build, let’s connect!

Sustainable Materials for Sustainable Spaces

Modernfold products are thoughtfully designed with eco-friendly components, including:

  • 100% Recycled Gypsum
  • NAUF MDF Board (No Added Urea-Formaldehyde)
  • Water-Based Adhesives
  • HAPS-Free Paint (Hazardous Air Pollutants)

Each of these elements contributes to products that are 70% recyclable at the end of their life, helping to reduce waste and promote circularity.

Skyfold echoes this commitment with vertical retractable walls crafted from up to 97% recycled materials, ensuring sustainable choices from installation to everyday use.

Reducing Waste, One Process at a Time

Beyond their products, they’re dedicated to reducing waste in our manufacturing processes. Modernfold actively recycles, reuses, and salvages materials, including:

  • Recycling of steel and aluminum chips
  • Converting wood pallets into mulch
  • Capturing and reusing oils
  • Recycling cardboard and office paper

These steps allow them to responsibly manage resources, reducing their environmental impact one material at a time.

Measuring Their Impact with Green Building Declarations

At Modernfold, they believe in the power of transparency to drive sustainable building practices. Their Green Building Declarations offer a clear view into their products’ environmental and health impacts, helping architects and designers make informed, eco-friendly choices. As the only operable wall manufacturer providing a comprehensive suite of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Health Product Declarations (HPDs), and detailed Environmental Impact Factsheets, they ensure their products meet rigorous sustainability and occupant health standards. Check out these resources here.

Committed to Quality and Sustainability

We’re most proud to share Modernfold’s Acousti-Seal® Encore®, Legacy®, Legacy® – Fire Rated, and Premier® products have earned the Indoor Advantage™ Gold Certification, a trusted standard for indoor air quality. This certification meets strict guidelines recognized by major organizations like the EPA and GSA and supports leading green building certifications, including LEED, BREEAM, WELL, and the Living Building Challenge. It also aligns with California’s public health standards, helping them to contribute to healthier indoor environments and sustainable building practices.

Modernfold’s dedication to quality and sustainability extends to their recent ISO 9001:2015 certification, an internationally recognized standard for quality management. This certification affirms Modernfold’s commitment to delivering the highest quality products on time and with the highest reliability. Alongside their Indoor Advantage™ Gold Certification—achieved by their Acousti-Seal® Encore®, Legacy®, Legacy® – Fire Rated, and Premier® products for indoor air quality—these certifications underscore their commitment to both excellence and environmental responsibility.

Ready to Build Sustainably?

We’re proud of the sustainable legacy we’re building—one operable wall at a time. By combining our dedication to quality, rigorous standards, and eco-friendly practices, we’re working to make every project functional and a step toward a healthier planet. From using products with top industry certifications to using responsible materials, our commitment to sustainability goes beyond products to create a lasting impact. As we continue to innovate, we’re excited to support you in creating spaces that respect the environment and enhance quality of life. Let’s work together to shape a more sustainable future.