Skip to content

Can Wood Flooring Be Environmentally Friendly?

Environmental and Green LivingJune 10, 2013Written by Ryan Jones496 views

Wood flooring is a popular type of flooring in many residential and commercial properties. The appeal of wood originates from its durability in terms of usable service life and from its sophisticated look. Nowadays, many potential consumers are asking whether wood flooring can be sourced from sustainable forests using ethical means. If you are interested in green living and wood flooring, here is what you should look for.

Can Wood Flooring Be Environmentally Friendly?

Wood species - The first step is to ensure that you are fitting wood from species which are not on any threatened or endangered list. The vast majority of reputable sellers will not offer woods which are threatened, however you can always check online. Organizations such as iucnredlist.org hold and update a list of species which are endangered and a quick search will bring up the necessary results.

Wood sourcing - The second step is to ensure that the wood is been sourced from sustainable habitats. These are managed forests where woods are always replaced and logging the wood does not damage the environment. Sellers will often display an ethical statement which will explain the origin of the wood.

Chain of custody - The term chain of custody referees to how the wood is handled and helps ensure that the wood which you are promised, is indeed the wood which you are about to fit. In each country a different organization is responsible for setting polices and sellers who are able to prove chain of custody will receive a certificate acknowledging this.

wooden flooring can be sourced in an environmentally friendly manner provided you follow the above suggestions.

About the Author

Ryan writes about diy and home improvement topics.