in turn, backed with a natural latex rubber. Carpet comes in rolls, rugs and tiles.
Carpet tiles should also be backd with a natural renewable material plus bitumen for
extra strength.
Carpet can also be made of other materials such as recycled nylon, for example,
fishing line or P.E.T. Berber. Polyester berber is made of recycled plastic bottles and
has minimal impact to the environment. For every plastic bottle used to create this
type of carpet, there is one less sitting in our landfills. P.E.T. carpet is durable, spill
resistant and comes in a range of colours and patterns.
Be Aware - many carpets are finished with a flame retardant which will off-gas and
contribute to poor indoor air quality. Carpets are not the best option for asthma and
allergy sufferers - they are a dust-mite trap. Best to get a HEPA filter vacuum or
keep carpet to area rugs.
ORGANIC COTTON
Cotton rugs are extremely comfortable and add softness and warmth to a room.
They take colours on beautifully so they come in a variety of colours and patterns.
Make sure the rug is woven with organic cotton, as conventional cotton is grown with
a lot of pesticides.
BAMBOO
Bamboo strands are harvested without killing the plant, so it’s a naturally sustainable
resource. Bamboo rugs are soft, easy care, very durable, water and dirt resistant.
JUTE (BURLAP)
Made from the stalk of the corchorus, a fast growing, rain-fed plant found in India
and Bangladesh. Jute is very soft as well as durable.
SEAGRASS
An easily renewable resource made from a flowering plant grown in salt-water
marshes. It’s water resistant, durable, easy to clean and has a smooth finish.
MOUNTAIN GRASS (HEMP)
Very similar to seagrass, hemp is grown in the mountains and has a bit more texture,
making it not quite as smooth as seagrass. It’s naturally durable and very strong.
SISAL
Made from the Sisalana plant or the agave plant from Brazil, Mexico and Africa. Sisal
is flame-retardant, super durable, long lasting and great for high-traffic areas in the
home. Can be dyed a range of colours.
COIR
Easily renewable, coir is made from the outer husks of coconuts. It’s very durable,
wiry and mildew-resistant. Used mostly for doormats.
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