The term green materials usually refers to products
made from sustainable or renewable items that do not
deplete the world’s natural resources. Materials
like bamboo, cotton, hemp, and soy-based foam insulation
are all great examples of renewable materials. However,
green materials can also refer to non-toxic low VOC
materials that don’t contribute to off-gassing
and offer safer painting or building alternatives and
better air quality.
When developers and homeowners choose products made
from sustainable or recycled materials they’re
making an active choice not to our dwindling natural
resources, damage our environment, or waste energy
with excessive manufacturing processes. Products like
non-toxic paints, rapidly renewable wood alternatives
or reclaimed wood, green insulation or even recycled
paper countertops can have a dramatic impact not only
on our global environment but also on a property’s
indoor air quality. The good news is that energy efficiency
can not only save you and your customers money on energy
costs, it can also help preserve our environment while
creating a healthier indoor air quality.
When evaluating a green product, keep a lookout for
the following points:
Choose locally manufactured products when possible.
Choose materials with the highest percentage of recycled
content. Find out if you can recycle the material when
you’re done using it. In other words, can flooring
scraps be recycled?
Ensure that the product is non-toxic elements
and low or zero VOC.
If you choose to use wood, make sure it is
harvested from certified sustainable forests. Better
yet: choose reclaimed wood.
Make sure the product adheres to green industry
standards.
Make sure the product is durable and easy
to maintain.
Choose products manufactured using processes
that have a low impact on the environment. Likewise,
make sure the manufacturer adheres to sound environmental
practices.
Please take a look at our extensive materials to get a sense
of what’s available. Contact
us for a free consultation
today and one of our Green Engineering Consultants will be
happy to educate you about how to choose the best products
for going green.
