Whether you are making an addition to your home or remodeling your bathroom, eco-friendly choices can help you conserve resources and reduce your environmental 'footprint.' As the demand for green building materials grows, major manufacturers are expanding their lines of affordable sustainable options, so the green choice may also be the less expensive one. Here are some guidelines to consider during your next project.

Consider renewable sources for cabinetry

Choose wood products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which are harvested from sustainably managed forests. Spruce, eucalyptus or reclaimed wood are durable, sustainable options from replenishable sources.

Use eco-friendly paint

Most paints release toxic fumes called VOCs (volatile organic compounds) even after the paint has dried. They are potentially carcinogenic and contribute to indoor air pollution. Low- or no-VOC paint is now readily available. Most paints rely on petroleum-based solvents, but eco-friendly paints are water based and are available as primers, finishes, sealers, waxes and stains.

Sustainable materials

Choose durable sustainable materials when replacing your floors. Linoleum is made from all natural ingredients (linseed oil) and has a life span of thirty to forty years. It resists damage and is easy to clean. Other popular choices include concrete, which can be decorated, bamboo and cork flooring, both of which are FCS endorsed. Recycled-content carpet not only produces fewer emissions during manufacturing and less off-gassing in the home, but it can also be recycled when its useful life is over.

Energy Star appliances

When replacing appliances, select models that display the Energy Star label. This means the item meets or exceeds international guidelines for energy efficiency. The more efficient the appliance, the more savings you will have accumulate over time. You may also get a rebate on your purchase from your utility company.

Recycle

Consider recycling your remodeling waste. Can any of the materials be reused in another project? Can items be donated or sold? Consider donating material to industrial recyclers so it can be reused.