In April 1970, the very first Earth Day was celebrated as a way of launching a movement that began to look at our environment in different ways. It brought about action such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act and much more.
This year its focus is on Green Cities. As we as a population move from countryside to cities, we bring about a whole host of issues in the process. Living in such close proximity to one another means we need to rethink everything we do, from our transportation to our energy and water usage.
In order to help celebrate Earth Day, we would like to provide you with a few tips to think about as you transition into new flooring materials for your home or office, and different ways to use green and sustainable products.
What is sustainable flooring?
Sustainable flooring is produced from sustainable materials that reduces demands on our ecosystems during its life cycle. To be sustainable, it must see reductions during the harvest, production, use and disposal process.
What qualifies as sustainable flooring?
Really, flooring options that meet sustainable requirements are vast. If you have a preference, you can probably find a sustainable option.
Wood is obviously at the top of the list. Trees absorb carbon, taking it out of our environment. Once its harvested and used as flooring, the carbon stays in the wood, meaning it continues to stay out of the atmosphere. When looking for wood flooring options, choose products made from specific environments that are maintained and reused over time. You can also look for reclaimed wood floors in which the wood was taken from a different source and is now used as flooring.
Bamboo is an up and coming source that is making its way into homes across America. Bamboo is a fast growing grass that is natural, water resistant, anti bacterial, and durable throughout your home. If considering bamboo, make sure you choose one with a backing made without formaldehyde, a toxic substance.
Like bamboo, cork flooring is also moving into the limelight. Cork is made by removing the bark without hurting the tree, meaning you can continue to get product without hurting the environment in the process. It is naturally anti microbial and has excellent insulation properties. Cork also has low VOC emissions, but make sure you check the finish applied to ensure it is truly sustainable.
Finally, if you love the feel and warmth of carpeting, it still makes the list. The key is to look for natural or recycled carpets using natural fibers such as cotton, wool, jute or coconut husk, or made from recycled food/drink containers. To make it sustainable, make sure you use adhesives that and non toxic, and it does not contain added finishes for stain or fireproofing.
Happy Earth Day!
For all of your Denver Hardwood Flooring needs visit our site today.