Photos courtesy of Unique Wood Floors
Despite common knowledge that implies cutting down trees for wood products leads to deforestation, climate benefits of wood flooring actually outweigh the drawbacks. This stems from several key factors that should be taken into consideration when deciding on your next flooring project.
Deforestation in North America is combated heavily through a strong reforestation effort. For more than 50 years, studies have shown that reforestation efforts in the United States, which contains 8 percent of the world’s forests, exceed annual harvesting rates.
In addition to this, consumers should also evaluate the alternative options for floorcoverings, such as vinyl or carpet. These alternatives are rarely biodegradable like their wood counterparts, and due to the use of adhesives, create more VOCs and formaldehyde.
The most overlooked element is the average lifespan of a floorcovering. Wood flooring lasts approximately four times as long as carpet, which means less time in production, less transportation, and less time for installation. All of these factors contribute to using less energy in the long run.
At Unique Wood Floors, we encourage readers to view wood flooring as a long-term investment for your health and the well-being of our planet. When shopping for floorcoverings, look for certifications through the Forest Stewardship Council for sustainability and Green Guard for emission control and indoor air quality.
All flooring sourced through Unique Wood Floors is CARB2 compliant and safe for long-term interior use. Visit www.uniquewoodfloor.com for responsible flooring solutions.
