Considering the environment is something everyone is becoming more aware of and it has become an integral part in every sector of industry.
But of how many sustainable materials can you name of straight away? Some of you may be able to think of more than others but would anyone really know all of them?
I'd like to start out with explaining some important terms I will use a lot in this article.
What does Eco-friendly mean?
Eco-friendly just means that something isn't harmful to the environment.
What makes a product Eco-friendly?
Source: https://www.qualitylogoproducts.com/promo-university/understanding-eco-friendly-products.htm
What does Environmental Sustainability mean?
Environmental Sustainability is responsibly interacting with the planet to maintain natural resources and avoid jeopardising the ability for future generations to meet their needs.
And
Is the capacity to improve the quality of human life while living within the carrying capacity of the earth's supporting ecosystems.
Sustainable Interior Design Materials
Below you'll find a selection of Eco-friendly materials. I'd like to point out that I haven't mentioned every sustainable material there is, but it'll give you an idea of what's out there. I wrote down some facts and added photos for each of them, so you can get a feeling of how they could work in your home.
Bamboo:
Bamboo is very fast growing and versatile. It is a flexible material, which at the same time is also very strong.
This Material is perfectly suitable for the inside and outside. Bamboo works great for furniture, decoration and planters.
Natural Stones:
There is a wide range of natural stones available, like marble and travertine for example. You will find these in various colours and every cut of stone is unique.
If you go for a tile or terrazzo, there can be parts of recycled content in them.
Cork:
Cork comes from the bark of the cork oak tree and replenishes itself every nine years. It is also good to know that removing the bark doesn't hurt the tree at all.
This material works great on walls, floors, accessories, or as insulation.
Reclaimed Wood:
Another very flexible material. Reclaimed wood can be used anywhere in your design and can give a homely, rustic outdoor feeling to a space. It can give a masculine touch or contrast a very light interior.
Repurpose:
Any material can be repurposed. Of course it depends on the quality and condition of it but up-cycling is always an option. I'm sure you'll find something in your home that, with a bit of love, can be transferred into something new and exciting.
Sunlight:
Sunlight is for free and is important to brighten up any space. The more sun you let in, the less lights need to be turned on which in turn benefits the environment.
And who doesn't need some extra sunlight in their life?
Certain Textiles:
Textiles like wool, linen, and hemp are great sustainable interior design materials. Changing or adding textiles in your space will change the whole design, as it plays such a massive role to any interior. Just look around and notice how much textile is used in yours.
Glass:
Glass can be endlessly recycled, which makes it super important when you think of sustainable materials. It can be used in dishes or vases, even counter tops or tables.
Of course you can also find glass in many different colours.
Recycled Aluminium:
Aluminium can be very functional but not only that. You can find aluminium in fine art and sculptures and use them for decoration. This can bring a very modern touch in your home.
There is so much more to write about environmentally friendliness and that's why I'm planning on making it a new category on my blog.
Soon you can find more posts about sustainability and more on here, so we can all learn a little and keep ourselves updated.
I hope you enjoyed reading!
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