The list of green countertop materials is extensive. Materials used to create these beautiful and durable surfaces includes various recycled products, wood, stone and concrete. A key consideration in the selection of the countertop material is the durability and lifetime of the product. When choosing a countertop material, keep in mind that being green is not a black-and-white issue. All products have some green and some not-so-green characteristics. Listed below are some of the most prominent green options for countertop materials.
Concrete - It is highly durable and can be poured in place for custom counters, but carries a high price tag. It is not inherently a green product—cement production and transportation are extremely energy-intensive, but can be less so if the aggregate is recycled and locally sourced. Look to substitute up to 30% of the cement with fly ash, a leftover material from coal-fired power plants. At the end of its life as a countertop, concrete can be reused whole or cut for other projects. Also, make sure the sealant is a low-VOC product.
Solid Surface - Paper composite surfaces are composed of paper and other fibers that have been impregnated with resin. Paper composite handles heat well, is very durable and any scratches can be sanded out. The resin does not come from recycled sources, but it constitutes a small amount of the material used. Because the resin is a thermoset plastic, paper-based solid surfaces are not recyclable. Make sure the product you choose is made from either a sustainably managed forest or recycled materials.
Ceramic Tile - Ceramic and porcelain tiles consist of natural clays, minerals and sands fired twice and usually glazed. Although ceramic tiles can contain up to 70 percent recycled materials, the firing process consumes large amounts of energy. Ceramic tiles are durable and inexpensive, however offer few options for recycling or resuse.
Recycled Glass - Glass tiles can be environmentally better than a ceramic equivilant because they contain 100 percent recycled content. Locally produced tiles are environmentally preferable. Glass tiles do not offgas VOCs if water-based grout is used and are easy to reuse or recycle.
Wood - Using untreated hardwood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for your countertop is one of the greenest choices available. FSC-certified wood from local, sustainably managed forests cuts down on shipping costs and energy. Wood is a renewable resource, easily recycled and requires relatively much less industrial processing. Wood, however, is less durable than other countertop materials and will require regular care and cleaning.
