The Hidden Truth about Most Carpets

Did you know that new carpet can be one of the most toxic things put in your newly built or renovated home? Sadly, this truth is generally ignored (or even hidden) by the general public.

Do you know what mainstream carpeting fibers are made of? Plastic. Yep, that's right. Plastic!

In talking with a woman who had been in the carpeting/textiles industry for many years I learned some interesting things.

I was informed that they push melted plastic through big machines (much like you would envision long doughy spaghetti strings being pushed through a metal strainer) and viola--carpet fibers are born! Simply tie this plastic to some more plastic backing, coat it with some more chemicals, and its ready to be shipped to your local carpet store.

Crazy, we know! Now the "new carpet" smell is making a little bit of sense. It also makes sense that you can get headaches, nausea, and even extreme physical reactions such as seizures from your new carpeting. Check the link below for a startling documentary on one little boy's severe reaction.

So, what are your available options besides this plastic, chemical cocktail?

Introducing a breath of fresh air: EarthWeave Carpet Mills Inc. and their BioFloor Line. This is 100% natural, untreated wool carpeting. The only color variations come from color of the sheep themselves. Perfect for families with small pets, children, and the chemically sensitive. It will also appeal to those wishing to turn their home's interior into a fresh, natural oasis. (Which we all deserve to have.) No chemicals are ever used during the process: all the way from shearing the sheep to attaching it to the 100% natural jute and cotton backing. Undeniably durable: 20+ lifespan and TOTALLY BIODEGRADABLE!

There are five different color lines to choose from and 4 different weave options. Wall to wall carpeting and rugs are both available. Visit A Splash of Green for more information. Online purchasing capabilities will be coming this Saturday, so be sure and check back and tell your friends!


To read the frightening carpeting documentary, click HERE.

      

16 Ways to Green Your Home: Part 2

If you read last week's blog hopefully you are well on your way to 'greening' your home this summer!  Most of us just need to prioritize the time to make the changes we have been wanting to make for some time and why not take this summer and start implemting at least a few of the ways listed last week and below to start being the change you wish to see in the world!  It starts now!

First let's start with 4 Ways to Choose Green Products:

8. Buy Local

Buying local produce reduces the amount of fossil fuels required for the transportation of products from

other parts of the country or the world. It also reduces the amount of plastic and paper products consumed

in the packaging of such far-traveling products. Buying local reduces consumption of valuable natural

resources.

9. Use Low-VOC Products

Improve your indoor air quality by switching to products that don’t give off “volatile organic compounds”

(VOCs). Some common low-VOC or no-VOC products include:

• Paint: A low-VOC paint is available from most major paint brands

• Cleaning products: Low-VOC cleaning alternatives are available for sale, or you can make your own VOC-free cleaning products using simple household materials like baking soda, vinegar and borax.


10. Use Wood Alternatives or FSC-certified Wood Products

11. Use Rapidly Renewable Flooring Materials

Now there are affordable, durable, and rich-looking flooring and cabinetry materials you can use that have a positive effect on your health and pocketbook. (Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)) You can choose from flooring options made with grasses and trees and mature flooring products are a sustainable alternative to traditional hardwoods. 12. Plant Trees to Provide Shade and Wind Protection for Your Houseficiency Carficient cars at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bestworst.html

3 Ways on how to Green Your Yard

This simple step can help you save money on heating and air conditioning bills while providing beautiful

views around your home.

13. Use Native Plantings

Native plants have been growing and evolving in your area for thousands of years and, as a result, have

adapted to the local soils and climate. As a result they are more likely to thrive with minimal care, unlike exotic

plants. That can mean less need for water, fertilizer and pesticides.

Additional info on green landscaping techniques can be found at: http://www.epa.gov/reg3esd1/garden/.

14. Use Nontoxic Gardening Techniques

Many gardeners over-apply or improperly apply pesticides, putting themselves, their families, and pets

at increased health risk. Nearly half of all households have pesticides stored within reach of children. About

230,000 people each year are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries relating to various lawn

and garden tools. Our clean air and drinking water are affected by pesticides and garden equipment emissions.

2 Ways on how to Green Your Transportation

15. Carpool, Use Public Transportation, Walk or Bike When Possible

Environmental responsibility does not begin and end at your doorstep; green transportation means can

greatly reduce your energy expenditures and carbon emissions from your daily routine.

16. Buy a High-ef

See the U.S. Department of Energy’s list of most fuel ef

The type of while reducing your environmental impacts.

• Consider using environmentally preferable and rapidly renewable products such as linoleum, bamboo, recycled-content tile or non-VOC carpet.

• Choose wood products from sustainably managed forests, such as those certi

• Use locally sourced products when possible to reduce carbon emissions associated with the transportation of those products.