There are several areas where you can improve your footprint during a renovation. Here are some of my favorite green options for essential design finishes.

Cabinetry

Think outside of the box for cabinet construction. Many vendors now carry Green-Core, by Crystal Cabinetry, which is plywood or particleboard made with renewable wood fiber and no-added urea formaldehyde (NAUF) resins, such as soy-based resin. Look for cabinet doors made with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wood and finished with water-based finishes.

Countertops

You can count on recycled countertops to last for the long haul. IceStone® is a recycled concrete and glass product that comes in a wide range of color options and different textural qualities. Richlite® is a recycled paper product that also works well for countertop installations.

Flooring

Bamboo and cork finishes, such as those from Teragren® and WE Cork®, are sustainable flooring products that now come in an even wider variety of textures and colors. Another option? Recycled polished concrete flooring.

Paint

Almost every paint manufacturer now has an eco-friendly product available, such as Benjamin Moore’s Natura line or DEViNE Color. Find low- or no-volatile organic compound (VOC) options at any store that carries paint.