The beauty, comfort and style that carpets give your home should not compromise the environment. The carpet industry is waking up to this fact, with a surge of eco-friendly choices. Statista reports that the worldwide carpet market was worth about 112.69 billion USD in 2019. Increasingly, a larger chunk of this market is made up of conscious consumers like you, seeking sustainable options. Without further ado, let’s delve into how you can integrate sustainability into your home through these choices.
Your Carpet Material Choices
Carpeting material is the most direct determinant of its environmental impact. For example, nylon and polypropylene, common synthetic fibers used in conventional carpets, prove to be petroleum-based and are not biodegradable. Instead, opt for natural, renewable materials such as wool or cotton. Sea grass and jute are other excellent choices to consider when looking for eco-friendly carpeting materials as they grow quickly thereby replenishing themselves faster than they can be exhausted.
Sourcing Your Carpets
Remember to consider the source of your chosen carpet material. Was the wool or cotton grown without pesticides? Was the sea grass cultivated sustainably? For instance, look for certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which ensures that organic fiber is harvested and processed responsibly.
Understanding Green Labels
Green labels are ways through which manufacturers disclose information about a product’s environmental impact. Look out for labels such as the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus or FloorScore® seal; these signal low emission carpets which circulate fewer pollutants indoors.
Post-Consumer Recycled Carpets
Manufacturers are designing post-consumer recycled material carpets more frequently these days. These types of carpet are designed from waste that has served its original purpose and been discarded by consumers. It is an innovative way to create new, quality carpeting while reducing landfill.
Recyclable Carpets
On the other side of the coin, look for carpets which are fully recyclable themselves. This means that at the end of its lifespan, the carpet can be turned back into raw materials instead of ending up in a landfill. Some manufacturers even run their own take-back programs to facilitate this recycling process.
PVC-Free Backing
You might not have given much thought to the underside of your carpet, but it is just as significant. Many carpets have a backing of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a material notorious for its environmental toxicity. Choose carpets with PVC-free backing such as those made out of latex.
Eco-Friendly Carpet Tiles
Consider eco-friendly carpet tiles an alternative to wall-to-wall carpet. These tiles are simple to install and can be replaced in sections if needed, reducing waste. They often come with green certifications and some manufacturers even take back expired tiles for recycling.
The Durability Factor
Sustainability is also about longevity; a durable carpet you will not need to replace very often creates less waste and is thus more environmentally friendly. Consider factors like thickness, density and twist level when choosing a durable carpet.
Low VOC Carpets
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can off-gas from new carpets into your home’s air, potentially causing health problems. Low VOC carpets are designed to emit fewer of these harmful gases, contributing not only to environmental sustainability but also to your indoor air quality.
Choosing a Responsible Manufacturer
There are manufacturers out there upholding commendable environmental and social responsibilities as part of their business practices. They not only create products in a sustainable manner, but take steps to offset their carbon footprint and provide fair working conditions. Look for these companies when shopping for your carpet.
Carpet Care and Maintenance
The way you care for your carpet matters as well. Good maintenance prolongs a carpet’s life and reduces its environmental impact. Avoid harmful cleaning chemicals by using eco-friendly alternatives or making DIY cleaners from ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
Reusing and Donating Old Carpets
Before sending your old carpet to a landfill, explore opportunities to reuse it. Smaller sections can serve as doormats or car seat protectors. Alternatively, many organizations can utilize your old carpet, either by recycling it or using it in community projects.
Lively Carpets and Human Health
Environmentally friendly carpets are also healthier for you. Chemical byproducts resulting from synthetic carpets can exacerbate ailments like asthma or allergies. In contrast, natural materials result in less indoor pollution and are safer for those who work to manufacture the carpets as well.
Eco Without Compromise
You do not have to sacrifice aesthetics when choosing an eco-friendly carpet. The sustainable carpet industry offers a range of beautiful styles and designs – from rustic seagrass to sophisticated organic wool blends. Manufacturers are combining innovation and style, demonstrating that going green does not mean going without.
Last Thoughts
With these guiding principles, the journey towards a sustainably furnished home is well within reach. You will not only reduce your environmental footprint, but can also enjoy peace of mind knowing that the comfort under your feet did not come at the expense of Mother Nature.
