As designers, our primary task is finding an equilibrium between style and sustainability. Sustainable kitchen countertop options present us with an opportunity to bring clients into harmony with our planet.
Solid surfaces and quartz are eco-friendly countertops as they do not harbor bacteria growth and utilize low or zero VOC paints and sealers, helping create a hygienic kitchen environment.
Locally Sourced Natural Stone
Stone is a naturally sourced material that can be obtained locally for reduced transportation emissions. When cared for properly, its surfaces will last generations before returning back into nature when no longer required.
Geology determines which natural stones are easily available within any given region. Granite can be found everywhere while limestone and sedimentary rocks are more prevalent in certain locations. Other options available locally include soapstone and quartz composite; all can be easily found.
Before purchasing a stone countertop, it’s essential to research its mining location and practices. Some imported stones may come from countries with harsh working conditions or unethical mining techniques; to make sure your countertops are as sustainable as possible choose stones certified with third-party verified standards such as Environmental Product Declarations or Health Product Declarations such as Teragren bamboo counters which remain carbon negative throughout their journey from production to the building site and reduce environmental impact further by being carbon negative throughout production and shipping!
Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood countertops are an ideal sustainable and natural aesthetic choice for homeowners seeking sustainable countertops that combine rustic charm and eco-friendliness. As a renewable resource, it reduces demand for virgin timber while saving money through using materials discarded from older structures.
Recycled glass countertops provide another eco-friendly option, using recycled pieces embedded in resin or concrete binder to craft an eye-catching surface. Reusing old pieces gives old glass new life while providing an extremely durable and heat resistant surface.
Fiberous cement composite is another environmentally-friendly countertop option made of recycled paper, glass, and low-carbon cement that utilizes recycled content. This product makes a beautiful statement while remaining functional as it resists cracking, scratching, heat, bacteria growth and sealing requirements, significantly reducing volatile organic compound (VOCs). Ideal for homeowners who want to reduce environmental impacts while not compromising style and function!
Concrete
Concrete countertops have become increasingly popular among green designers due to their long lifespan and low life-cycle costs, serving as a sustainable alternative to granite, marble and soapstone countertops. When purchasing your concrete slabs from an ethical supplier it’s essential that they inform you about labor practices as this ensures all people working on them are treated fairly and are being paid accordingly.
Concrete counters can be enhanced with vibrant pigments or dyes to produce custom color palettes and textures, or enhanced with river pebbles, seashells, tiles or glass embedded for additional artistic flair.
Solid surfaces and quartz are considered the healthiest countertops as they are non-porous materials that help prevent the growth of bacteria, while their minimal cleaning requirements make them suitable for food preparation and cooking areas. Furthermore, stainless steel countertops offer another healthy yet stylish choice which may contribute to LEED points when designing green kitchens.
Recycled Aluminium
Recycled aluminium countertops provide a durable and rustproof surface suitable for kitchen countertops. Manufacturers such as ElementAl Surfaces and Alkemi use recycled metal shavings sourced from both 88-100% recycling programs mixed in no-VOC resin to produce stunning designs, offering less heat resistance than stainless steel but easier maintenance with regular sealing and oiling of sealants and oils.
PaperStone countertops are another eco-friendly countertop option, made from recycled glass and Portland cement to produce its sleek design. Highly stain-resistant and low maintenance are hallmarks of PaperStone; look for companies sourcing glass from recycled bottles and with carbon neutral footprints when selecting this option. In terms of natural stones used as countertops in your home, always verify if their quarrying locations and labor practices comply with ethical labor practices – and finally look out for products which qualify for LEED credits as additional considerations.