Over the years, there has been a debate on the ground.
industry on the impact their products have on the
environment. In 2003, a group of industry research and
technical specialists gathered at the University of North Carolina
examine science with regard to the positive or
negative attributes of materials found in products such as
carpets, rugs and linoleum.
The panel analyzed hundreds of studies regarding how
Carpets and non-carpet materials contribute to the environment.
quality and if there is a significant concern with
substances and allergens that are supposed to have been commonly
he found.
The intention of the researchers was to try to settle years
anecdotal evidence and establish an industry standard to help
buyers and sellers of flooring products. A good part of the
The information reviewed came from the
Protection Agency, National Libraries of Health Sciences,
and other previously published industry experts.
A review of the entire literature led to an important conclusion:
materials found in the soil “play an important role in the
quality of life indoors. “Contributes to healthy design
factors, safety, aesthetics, air conditioning, ergonomics and
physical comfort. When properly maintained, carpets and
area rugs do not pose a public health risk.
While the group’s conclusion was great news for the
industry and the public, there is still a need to examine
soil impact on the entire environment, including the
role played by carpets and floors made of natural materials
materials.
Decorate like Darwin: by natural selection
With so many types of rugs available today, it is difficult
enough to make a style selection, let alone have to take
health and environmental considerations. Agreement
Clean carpets in good condition will be of great help
ease any worries. Area rugs have material
differences, however. Here’s a quick look at natural fiber rugs.
and other natural pavements:
WOOL RUGS
Water, water everywhere, so keep away from wool. Water
it is one of the greatest enemies of wool rugs. Lana, popular in
Oriental rugs, 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 Scary
Factor. However, save something that requires water,
as potted plants, made of wool rugs.
Aside from water, the long, coarse 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: 4.7 billion
pounds in 2002 according to the EPA: any carpet that lasts
longer, like a hand-knotted wool rug, you will get the seal
approval of the Green Party.
JUTE CARPETS
Once used primarily as a carpet backing, Jute has come to
The great moment. As a full member of the Area Rug and
family of rugs, jute, ranging from light tans to browns,
is one of the finest and smoothest natural floor coverings
materials.
Composed mainly of plant materials, jute is a rainy season.
crop that grows best in hot and humid climates as parts of
China and India. While it can grow in rainy weather, jute
the carpet will not withstand areas with high levels of humidity. Unlike
wool, jute is resistant to microorganisms, but the material
in fact, it will deteriorate rapidly when exposed to moisture.
BAMBOO RUGS
Gilligan’s Island no longer monopolizes the bamboo market
flat. You do not have to live in a hut 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 obvious. Not
trees to cut down, no waste. Bamboo is technically a grass,
and also a highly renewable resource. Mature in less
six-year-olds, bamboo is harvested over and over again since
same plants. Its strength combined with natural beauty
can add a contemporary touch to any living space.
SEAGRASS CARPETS
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 primarily tropical grass
imported from China, Seagrass, which only comes in a
natural organic green color, it is soft to the touch and
extremely durable and stain resistant.
SISAL CARPETS
Sisal is another natural fiber that has recently been gained
popularity with 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 fibers.
making its staying power ultra eco-friendly. Water is
Neither is Sisal’s friend. The mat should never be used in
the bathroom or other humid areas of the house.
CORK FLOORS
Now you may be thinking about how a cork rug is made?
Well, it isn’t. Cork has been included in this discussion.
simply because it can be considered a cousin in the
fiber family. Used as a durable hardwood 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 cut down and can produce bark for
centuries. Also, almost all the collected materials
are put to 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.
LINOLE FLOORS
This is not a joke. Linoleum is back. So break the disco
ball and platform shoes. The vinyl almost sent linoleum to the
scrap yard flooring, but like flared bottoms, linoleum is
making a comeback. It’s contemporary and turns green
stamp. While vinyl is synthetic and petroleum-based, linoleum
is made entirely of natural materials, linseed oil being the
principal ingredient.
The resurgence of natural and retro products is behind
linoleum revival. 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.
About the Author: