I am in the process of remodeling my house. Today's dilemna came when I was evaluating my choices of countertops. Like most green decisions, price was the biggest factor. I could either choose a cheaper quartz material ($2000), a new granite material ($2500), or a granite overlay ($4500). The more expensive it was, the better green choice it was (unfortunately). How could I possibly justify the extra $2000? Isn't twice the price too much to expect someone to "go green"? That's what I kept telling myself...
Let me first explain the benefits of the granite overlay. First, it was made of 70% recycled glass bottles. Second, it would reuse the existing countertops and I wouldn't have to send it to the landfill. Third, it used much less granite material than traditional granite countertops, so less was taken from the earth. Fourth, it was not porous like natural granite, so it was more resilient to damage from heat and knives. Fifth, and most important, it came down to principle. If I was really going to be serious about making a change, I had to feel the pain from time to time, and this was one of those times. It's easy to be green when the price is not an issue. The more we can support green companies, the more likely that price will become less of a differentiator.
I chose the granite overlay. It was 50% of my remodeling budget, but when they were finished, it was worth every penny. I also feel good about my decision, knowing that I made the right choice, not only for me, but for the environment.
Let me first explain the benefits of the granite overlay. First, it was made of 70% recycled glass bottles. Second, it would reuse the existing countertops and I wouldn't have to send it to the landfill. Third, it used much less granite material than traditional granite countertops, so less was taken from the earth. Fourth, it was not porous like natural granite, so it was more resilient to damage from heat and knives. Fifth, and most important, it came down to principle. If I was really going to be serious about making a change, I had to feel the pain from time to time, and this was one of those times. It's easy to be green when the price is not an issue. The more we can support green companies, the more likely that price will become less of a differentiator.
I chose the granite overlay. It was 50% of my remodeling budget, but when they were finished, it was worth every penny. I also feel good about my decision, knowing that I made the right choice, not only for me, but for the environment.
