Green and Recycled Flooring

First, it is on the color palette of future trends as one of the new neutral colors for home décor. You have but to look around at clothing couture and photos of what interior designers are doing.

But just as important is the movement toward green in our home environments –– green as in making responsible choices for our living environment.

The green movement in consumerism is not a political one; it is one of choice as consumers “vote” with their pocketbooks to purchase products which are natural or biodegradable or promote healthy homes or all of the above. In a nutshell it is making decisions which are environmentally less impactful. That can be products (for us flooring fashion) which is made from natural materials, is recycled or recyclable, which don’t give off fumes or which can’t harbor (or automatically combat) bacteria and molds.

A few thoughts on “green” flooring purchases.

Did you know that ...

many manufacturers recycle or use recycled materials in their carpet and rugs?

wool is a renewable, long-lasting and naturally biodegradable fiber?

most wood flooring manufacturers support responsible forestry practices worldwide?

ceramic tile is made from natural materials like clay, sand and water?

linoleum, a resilient floor, is made from natural, renewable plant materials?

responsible laminate manufacturers turn recyclable wood products into coreboard?

manufacturers offer antibacterial, anti-microbial and odor-fighting systems (see below) for their products, cushion and underlayments?

technology has extended the life and the look of flooring which means your new floor will last longer?

the US Building Council is a coalition to promote Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design? (For more information, log onto wwwusgbc.com or www.BuildingGreen.com).