As years go by we need to realise that the earth is getting warmer and as this happens energy becomes more expensive. Use of eco-friendly materials in our interior designs is the beginning of a safer and better environment.
Bamboo
Wood is commonly used in various interior designs but growing back the trees might take decades. Therefore this makes wood exceptionally hard to recycle. On the other hand bamboo grows faster and has been compared to weed. It grows eight times faster than hardwood. What makes bamboo highly renewable is not the fact that it grows quickly but the fact that when harvested the plant does not die. This has made bamboo an excellent choice for flooring solutions. They also make durable countertops and cabinet material because they do not dent.
Non toxic paint
Have you ever tried breathing inside your home after a fresh coat of paint? Well, I assume the feeling was not pleasant. This is because paint is made of volatile organic compounds which are toxic to humans and the environment. Now there are paints that have low or no VOCs and they are not harmful to humans and the environment.
Recycled paper
Even with the new inventions of email, texting and PDF, paper is still a huge part of our lives. So this means that trees are dying everyday so we can have something to read and write on. To save trees papers can be recycled to make more paper. Better yet, more paper can be recycled to make countertops. These countertops made from paper are heat resistant, water-resistant and stain-resistant.
Natural plasters
Natural plaster is also known as earth plaster. It is made at lower temperatures compared to the traditional plasters which helps in the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. These plasters are unpigmented and most come in earthy tones. So if you choose to use this eco-friendly plaster please be sure to use eco-friendly paint which has no or low VOCs.
LED lighting
This type of lighting is marvellous because it uses no energy at all compared to fluorescent and incandescent bulbs. They are also known to last close to 20 years. This means you will not have to make frequent changes.
Other eco-friendly materials to consider
- Cork
- Concrete
- Use Scndinavian decor
- Recycled glass
Please check out Tylko for more information and inspiration.