Sampling of Sustainable Building Materials

PAINTS

Choose paints with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as EcoSpec by Benjamin Moore (www.benjaminmoore.com).

SUSTAINABLE WOODS

Look for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label, which certifies that wood has been sustainably produced (www.certifiedwood.org). Choose recycled or salvaged wood when possible.

FLOORING

Look for recycled or sustainably sourced materials, such as the Freudenberg Company's Nora recycled rubber flooring (www.norarubber.com).

See thegreenguide.com for the Paint Product Report, which lists specific brands. See also Archives GG #96 for more flooring and building materials and GG #92 for info on greening up existing school structures.