Rugs and floors: two new green giants
Over the years, there has been a debate in the courtroom
industry about the impact their products have on the
ambient. In 2003, a group of industry researchers and
technical specialists met at the University of North Carolina
examine science with respect to the positive or
negative attributes of materials found in products such as
carpets, rugs and linoleum.
The panel reviewed hundreds of studies regarding how
Carpets and non-carpet materials contribute to the conservation of the environment.
quality and if there is a significant concern with toxics
substances and allergens supposedly commonly
found.
The intention of the researchers was to try to solve years
of anecdotal evidence and establish an industry standard to help
Buyers and sellers of flooring products. a good part of the
revised information came from the Environmental Department
Environmental Protection Agency, the National Libraries of Health Sciences,
and other previously published industry experts.
A review of all the literature led to an important conclusion:
materials found in floors “play an important role in the
quality of life indoors”. Contributes to a healthy design
factors, safety, aesthetics, air conditioning, ergonomics and
physical comfort. When properly maintained, carpets and
area rugs are not at all public health risks.
While the conclusion of the group was great news for the
industry and the public, it is still necessary to examine
impact of the soil on the entire environment, including the
role played by rugs and natural wood flooring
materials
Decorate like Darwin: by natural selection
With so many types of mats available today, it’s hard
enough to make a style selection, let alone have to take
take into account health and environmental concerns. agreement
clean and well-maintained carpets will go a long way
alleviate any concerns. Area rugs have material
differences, however. Here’s a quick look at natural fiber rugs
and other natural soils:
WOOL CARPETS
Water, water everywhere, so keep it away from the wool. Water
It is one of the biggest enemies of wool rugs. Wool, popular in
Oriental rugs, it has a high moisture recovery and is
susceptible to attack by microorganisms. that may sound like
the bad plot of a Hollywood horror movie or an episode of Fear
Factor. However, keep something that requires water,
like potted plants, outside of wool rugs.
Aside from water, the long, thick fibers of wool have the ability to
maintain indoor air quality and, unlike synthetic fibers, can
absorb indoor pollutants. From discarded carpet
represents a huge amount of waste: 4,700 million
pounds in 2002 according to the EPA – any carpet that lasts
longer, like a hand-knotted wool rug, will get the seal
of the approval of the Green Party.
JUTE RUGS
Once used primarily as a carpet backing, jute has come to
the big time As a full member of the area rug and
family of rugs, the jute, which ranges from light tans to browns,
is one of the finest and smoothest natural floor coverings
materials
Mainly composed of plant materials, jute is a rainy season
crop that grows best in hot, humid climates as parts of
Chinese and Indian. Although it can grow in rainy weather, jute
the rug will not withstand areas with high humidity levels. Unlike
wool, jute is resistant to microorganisms, but the material
in fact, it will quickly deteriorate when exposed to moisture.
BAMBOO RUGS
Gilligan’s Island no longer corners the bamboo market
flat. It is not necessary to live in a shack to use this material.
Bamboo, which is also a trend in cutting boards and
hardwood flooring has become a popular choice for the area
rugs And their respect for the environment is evident. Nope
trees to fell, without waste. Bamboo is technically a grass,
and also a highly renewable resource. maturing in less
six years old, the bamboo is harvested again and again from the
same seedlings. Her strength combined with a natural beauty
can add a contemporary touch to any living space.
SEA GRASS RUGS
Seagrass is not something you thought it was
illegal. You can’t grow it in your backyard, but it seems
great in the house. Created from mainly tropical grass
imported from China, Seagrass, which only comes in a
natural organic green color, is soft to the touch and
extremely durable and stain resistant.
SISAL RUGS
Sisal is another natural fiber that has recently gained
popularity among designers. The material is derived from a
cactus plant, cultivated in semi-arid regions such as Brazil and
Africa.
Sisal is stronger and more durable than other natural fibres,
making its staying power ultra friendly to the environment. Water is
neither friend of Sisal. The rug should never be used in
the bathroom or other damp areas of the house.
CORK FLOORS
Now you may be wondering how a cork rug is made.
Well, it isn’t. Cork has slipped into this discussion
simply because it can be considered a natural prime
fiber family Used as a durable hardwood-type flooring, the
the cork oak is the only one whose bark can regenerate
after harvest without harming the tree or the environment.
The tree is never killed or felled and can produce bark for
centuries. In addition, almost all of its harvested materials
are put into use.
Cork is known for its strong environmental policy, and when
feet hit the ground, it is known for its durability. The cork may seem
elastic compared to wood, but its “natural memory
capacity” and resistance to liquid penetration can make it a
attractive alternative.
LINOLEUM FLOORING
This is no joke. Linoleum is back. So break the disco
ball and platform shoes. The vinyl almost feels linoleum on the
scrap flooring, but like flared pants, linoleum is
making a comeback. It’s contemporary and gets the green.
stamp. While vinyl is synthetic and petroleum-based, linoleum
is made entirely from natural materials, with linseed oil being the
principal ingredient.
The resurgence of natural and retro products is behind
the renaissance of linoleum. As a natural product, linoleum can be
recycled and hypoallergenic, which benefits those who
suffer from allergies or asthma. Linoleum also contains
antibacterial properties that help stop the growth of
microorganisms
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