If you are looking for a new floor, it is important to consider the environment. Fortunately, there are more and more floors that are eco-friendly. But what actually makes a floor environmentally friendly? There are several factors that determine this. In this article, we take a closer look at these factors and discuss the different types of eco-friendly flooring available
The materials used in a floor are crucial to its environmental friendliness. Here are some materials that are considered eco-friendly:
Natural materials, like cork, wood and bamboo, are sustainable and renewable. When these materials are harvested, the trees are not destroyed and can be grown again. Natural materials are also biodegradable and generally have fewer harmful chemicals than synthetic materials.
Recycled materials, such as recycled wood, glass and rubber, reduce landfill waste and save natural resources. Moreover, recycling materials uses less energy than extracting new raw materials.
Besides the materials used in a floor, the production process also has a big impact on its environmental friendliness. We have listed some characteristics of an eco-friendly production process:
Energy efficiency: During the production process, eco-friendly factories pay attention to reducing energy and greenhouse gas emissions.
Waste management: Factories that manage waste efficiently minimise the amount of waste sent to landfill and reduce the burden on the environment. It is therefore important to check how the manufacturer handles waste and whether there are recyclable or biodegradable options.
Maintenance and disposal: The maintenance and disposal of the floor affect its lifespan and environmental friendliness.
There are several certificates by which eco-friendly floors can be recognised. Duracryl is a company that values sustainability, which is why all our floors carry the Declare® Red List Free certificate.
The Red List lists chemicals, materials and elements used in the construction industry that are known to pose serious risks to human health and the wider ecosystem. Declare® Red List Free acts as a ‘value label’ for building materials and is the gold standard for environmental certification and product transparency. Floors with Red List Free certification offer absolute peace of mind for anyone who wants to create a healthier, safer and more sustainable home, office or building.
