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Install carpeting made from natural materials

Why This is Green

In the U.S., carpet covers more than 70 percent of the floors in homes and workplaces. In 2003, 50 billion pounds of carpet were estimated to be in landfills. Traditional carpets are made from non-renewable resources and can be a source of harmful indoor air pollution, as can the padding and adhesives used in installation. These products contain chemicals that can release toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air we breathe for weeks or even months after installation.

That new carpet smell is actually the smell of those VOCs being released; exposure to VOCs can cause nose and throat discomfort, headache, allergic skin reaction, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, dizziness and a host of other symptoms.

Installing a carpet made from all-natural materials such as wool or sisal helps reduce exposure to VOCs. These are also renewable resources, while something like synthetic nylon is not. The safest carpets are also colored with natural pigments, not chemically treated, and have a backing made from natural materials, like hemp or jute. Carpet adhesives should also be natural and biodegradable.

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How To

Check The Carpet and Rug Institute's listing of products that have earned their Green Label or Green Label Plus certification.

Installation of natural carpet is the same as that of traditional carpet—just make sure to also use non-toxic carpet cushion and adhesive.

Avoid carpets that have been treated with a stain-proofing chemical.

Natural carpets on bare floors are the easiest way to go. If ripping up and laying down new wall-to-wall, don't forget to recycle the old.