If you’ve ever thought about making your home environmentally friendly, now is a great time to start the process. Manufacturers have created some truly innovative solutions that are safe, sustainable and will look fantastic in your home. Anyone who is considering a home remodel will want to take a look at some of the green options available today.

Paper-Based Countertops

Crafted from a composition of tree pulp, recycled paper and plastic resin, these countertops are a green alternative to stone or synthetic surfaces. Paper-based countertops are durable, moderately priced and non-porous (which means you won’t have to worry about bacteria invisibly multiplying on top of your counters). In terms of maintenance, they need to be sealed and may be damaged from contact with harsh cleaning products.

Bamboo Plywood

Instead of purchasing traditional wood cabinetry, consider bamboo plywood. Bamboo is a renewable source of wood; it grows rapidly and only takes four years to reach full maturity. Additionally, it’s pretty hardy and will not warp from contact with moisture or humidity.

Cork Flooring

Cork is harvested in a unique way. Instead of cutting down the tree, cork is made from stripped bark. Thus, the tree is not damaged in the process and the bark grows back over the following year. Cork flooring is hypo-allergenic, which makes it beneficial for homeowners who suffer from allergies.

Energy Efficient Windows

The average home could lose up to 30% of its heat or air-conditioning through its windows. Energy efficient windows can help you save on energy costs, while saving your HVAC system from becoming overworked.