As if planning a new kitchen wasn’t complicated enough now we also have choices related to our carbon footprint. Most of us will choose products that are better for the environment as long as it doesn’t inconvenience us or cost a fortune. Unfortunately some of these eco-friendly products also come with a higher price tag so your ultimate decisions will also be based on your kitchen budget.

Luckily there are many opportunities to choose green for your new kitchen design.

Flooring – Ceramic tile has always been environmentally friendly but now floor tiles made from recycled materials are also available. Hardwood that comes from sustainable woodlots has the green stamp. Look for finishes that are formaldehyde free, solvent free and non-toxic. As part of a trend to produce a more natural product, some manufacturers have started offering natural oil and wax finishes. Of course cork is a green favorite since it only uses the outer bark of the tree and is renewable. Bamboo flooring is gaining in popularity and is available in many textures and colors (make sure you get  the hardest bamboo available or it will not be durable). If your supplier is associated with FSC, LEED, or FloorScore they will carry eco-friendly options.

Cabinets - Find a cabinet manufacturer who has a commitment to producing eco-friendly products made from renewable resources. Their company polices should reflect this commitment to the environment. They should not be using volatile organic compounds in the cabinet materials and the paints, primers and finishes should be of low VOC products. ESP certification is the best way to confirm the company’s ability to manufacture a ‘green’ product. Recycling your old cabinets is another way to be earth friendly.

Countertops – You could consider granite and other stone tops eco-friendly except for the emissions produced by the mining and transportation of these materials. They do last a long time and so do not need to be replaced as often as some other counters. Quartz counters are a great alternative  especially if they are manufactured in North America. Numerous recycled glass countertop options are becoming available. If you like a wood counter bamboo is an option as well. The latest offering is a recycled paper product that is quite durable but I also a bit expensive.

Appliances -A lot of your home’s energy consumption goes into your kitchen appliances. Replacing your old appliances with energy efficient items will save money on your hydro bill as well as the greenhouse gasses emitted by older models. Fortunately this is one of the easiest areas to go greener thanks to the Energy Star ratings given to all appliances that meet the efficiency requirements by the Department of Energy. Look for the Energy Star label to find the energy use of the appliances you are considering to help make the greenest choices for your new kitchen.

The GreenHomeGuide is a great website from the Green Building Council that will give you much more info on eco-friendly building products and ideas.