The answer is not so easy, especially since manufacturers, having got a whiff of the green they can get from "green," are claiming that everything is eco-friendly. Vinyl flooring? Doubtful. But that won't stop the companies claiming so.
Contributing Writer Murrye Bernard has put together a list of eco-friendly building materials, so that you can know what's in and what''s not.
I was surprised to read about some of these, such as soy-based sealants. I had no idea such thing even existed. Recycled-content drywall? Another one that surprised me, but it makes complete sense. Drywall is little more than gypsum and paper, both of which can be easily recycled.
Image: baronsboy
Comments
Yea, it can be difficult to judge for yourself what actually constitutes “green” building supplies. I recommend checking out the Sweets Network from McGraw-Hill, my employer. For all manufacturers, they have a section to display any green certification or relevant information. It’s a great resource.