As most businesses begin looking to green solutions for sound business/environmental practices, as well as added savings, they often neglect to consider the very ground they walk on. More often, we think of green solutions as they pertain to computing technologies and other similar technical advances like office automation and paperless transaction. But by taking into consideration even the most basic elements of office design, one can drastically cut costs and build a greener business, literally from the floor up.
The following is a list of the top 3 most eco-friendly flooring options that you might consider for your business space.
Wool Carpeting
Wool isn’t just good for keeping you warm; it’s also a great option for your floors if you prefer carpeting. Durable, soft, fire-retardant, and great for heat, humidity, and temperature absorption, wool is a great option for a number of reasons. In the warmer months, wool floors will help keep the office cooler by wicking away humid moisture and repelling heat. Conversely, in the cooler months, it will retain heat and keep the office warmer.
As it’s recyclable, stain resistant, and very renewable, wool becomes a great eco-friendly option for those in need of office carpeting. Companies like Prosource Carpet offer great wool carpeting products as well as other green carpeting options for your consideration.
Bamboo
Not only is bamboo a beautiful choice for flooring, it’s also very easy to install and highly sustainable as it grows in abundance in the U.S. and abroad. Cured bamboo, as is used in most flooring operations, is very resilient and is available in a large variety of styles and textures. Bamboo flooring is becoming hugely popular for these reasons, and is both a great visual and environmentally sustainable way to dress your office. Also, bamboo is a great choice for those suffering from asthma and allergies, which could be a great benefit for some of your employees.
Linoleum
Linoleum flooring, despite what many think, is actually made from renewable materials often including limestone, pine rosins, wood flour, and linseed oil, among others. If you’ve ever seen or owned any linoleum floors, which you likely have, then you already know how durable and easy to maintain it is. Another big perk for existing businesses especially is the fact that linoleum flooring is offered in just about any color conceivable, making it an easy match for any existing office décor.
While going green certainly doesn’t end with the physical designs and building materials for your business, it does make a great starting point, and can help guide you down a greener, more sustainable path in the future. Choosing the right flooring for your business needs can be both a painless and beneficial process for all involved. As far as your style and the environment are concerned, it should be a win-win for both.
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