Determining what is "green" isn't always easy – and that goes for green flooring too. To get an idea of the whole
notion of "green" (or "eco–friendly") it's worth
stepping back and taking a look at the big picture: our global natural environment or ecosystem. By starting broadly, one can
begin to get a handle on factors and consequences – and just what "green" really means in our everyday lives.
The manufacture of certain floors and flooring products has a direct effect on many of the ecosystems on which we depend
for resources (i.e. forests; oceans). These ecosystems are fragile and any form of industry – in fact most human
activity – will have an impact on them. Learn how you can help preserve these natural ecosystems by making more
eco–conscious flooring choices.
A carbon footprint measures an entity's daily greenhouse gas output in units of carbon dioxide (CO2). In terms of
flooring, a carbon footprint assesses the amount of greenhouse gasses that are emitted during harvesting, manufacture,
transport to the final destination, and installation. Floors with a smaller carbon footprint are considered to be more
environmentally friendly.
The emission of greenhouse gasses into the air adds to global warming. Consequences of an increase in Earth's average
temperature include decline in agriculture production, the death of mass species and glacier retreat. You can help with
global warming on a small level by choosing flooring and floor products that's free from VOCs* and other
pollutants.
Green flooring is a big part of the green building
process, as it's usually the largest surface in a home. Green building also accounts for overall construction of the
building, waste and materials used. Truly green building designs generally consist of products made from resources that are
renewable, sustainable and/or made locally.
Use this section to learn more about the process of installing, making and transporting flooring in relation to the
natural world. Choosing eco–friendly products and green building is not just a great way to help preserve the planet's
natural resources, it can also help you save on energy bills and floor repairs. Join Green.FindAnyFloor.com™ as we
explore the different elements that make certain floor products green.
*VOCs or volatile organic compounds are carbon–based chemical compounds that vaporize under
pressure. Exposure to VOCs can result in allergy–like symptoms, asthma irritations and even increased cancer risk.
