SCAQMD probes compliant wood furniture coatings. (South Coast Air Quality Management District)

Diamond Bar, Calif., Sept. 8 -- In a move aimed at improving air quality and the economy, the South Coast Air Quality Management District and industry groups teamed up on a project to test water-based coatings that give wood furniture a desirable high-gloss finish while meeting Southern California's strict air-pollution limits.

The effort was the result of cooperation involving the district, the California Furniture Manufacturers Association and Southern California Edison, the region's electric utility.

"These coatings will allow wood furniture makers to meet air quality requirements and still make quality products that are competitive with those made outside …