“Green living” or “going green” is a trend in many sectors of the economy, but none more than housing and construction. In terms of flooring selections, the “Three Rs” can help you to understanding the environmental impact of choices for your home.
Recyclability – The floor made with post-consumer or post-industrial recycled material. Ideally, the materials can even be recycled again into additional products, such as certain carpet fibers.
Rapidly Renewable – Floors are considered “green” if they can be quickly replenished. Bamboo is cut and then grows back from the same stump; sometimes at four feet per day. Wool carpets obviously come from sheep. There are durable, attractively priced carpets made of corn fibers.
Regional – Is the material made or distributed close to home, defined as a 500 mile radius of your location? In the Tennessee area, that might be oak floors, certain tile products or carpet products out of Georgia.
These “Three Rs” comprise the basics to living green.
If you want to learn more, Textures Flooring is a good source for more specific green flooring ideas.
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