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When shopping for new flooring, consider choosing eco-friendly or sustainable options that are better for the environment. There are a few key things to look for when evaluating the sustainability of different flooring types.

Material Sources

One of the most important factors is where the flooring materials come from. Opt for renewable resources like bamboo, cork, and wood from responsibly managed forests over options mined or drilled from the earth, like vinyl and petroleum-based carpets. Also look at recycled content – many flooring companies now incorporate recycled materials into their products, giving new life to old glass, tires, and plastic that would otherwise end up in a landfill.

Production Process

Examining how the flooring is made is equally important. Even if raw materials are from a renewable source, manufacturing processes can involve toxic chemicals and substantial energy consumption, generating greenhouse gas emissions. Seek out brands that use greener production methods, like low VOC adhesives and finishes that are safer for installers and homeowners. Factory emissions and waste disposal also should be part of a comprehensive environmental evaluation.

Durability & Maintenance

The longer the flooring lasts and the less maintenance it requires, the less it needs to be replaced and the fewer resources ultimately get used. Hardwood, stone, ceramic, and vinyl floors tend to be very durable if properly cared for. Carpeting and softer materials like cork need more frequent replacement – sometimes in less than 10 years for heavily used household floors. Consider longevity and regular maintenance requirements for any new flooring.

Certifications

With the rise in eco-conscious consumers, more brands are getting environmental certifications to back up their sustainability claims. Look for well-known third-party certifiers like Greenguard, Green Label Plus, or Cradle to Cradle that set rigorous standards related to materials, emissions, energy use and efficiency. FSC, SFI and other forestry certifications also verify wood flooring materials come from responsibly managed sources. Brand specific certifications or “ecolabels” generally offer less assurance. Relying on multiple certifications together provides better validation of environmental benefits.

End of Life Recycling or Reuse

Finally, understand available options when the flooring does eventually need replacement. Can it be recycled, repurposed, or safely composted? Materials like natural linoleum, for example, can be fully recycled back into new flooring through reclaim programs. Remnant pieces of many flooring types can be reused in smaller home projects as well. If replacing carpeting, ask retailers if they offer recycling services and avoid old carpet ending up in the trash. Check local options too, as some communities accept flooring for recycling.

Final Words

Making sustainable flooring choices requires researching various attributes from material sources to end of life considerations. Focus first on durability and longevity to use fewer resources over time. Then balance factors like renewability, recycled content, greener production methods, and recyclability to reduce the overall environmental footprint. Referencing established eco-certifications also makes selecting legitimately eco-friendly flooring much easier. Investing in sustainable floors today promotes responsible use of resources and benefits the planet for decades to come.

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