There is a lot of talk these days about "going green" and the trend now even extends to kitchen cabinets. But what exactly does the term "green kitchen cabinets" actually mean?
The general term "greenbuilding" means that the design processes and materials used in construction and remodeling are designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
Green kitchen cabinets do not immediately appear very different to any other cabinetry you might find in a store or design showroom. They come in all shapes, sizes and finishes and a wide range of materials. Green kitchen cabinets also often come with a slightly higher price tag, as is the case with most products that are designated as “eco friendly”.
Green Wood
Kitchen cabinets that are constructed with green wood take many forms. Many experts consider that a non-lumber is actually the most environmentally conscious choice of all. Bamboo is a rooted plant that is just as durable and long lasting as traditional woods, but matures in five to six years and is easily replenished, whereas hardwoods can take over fifty years to develop to a point where the lumber can be used for cabinetry.
Traditional timber that is labeled as "green" are materials that are grown and harvested in a manner that is considered to be environmentally sustainable. In order to be Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified as a green or organic wood the lumber must also be formaldehyde-free, something that most commercial cabinetry is not.
Recycled Wood
Kitchen cabinets that are made from recycled or "reclaimed" woods are also considered to be a "greenalternative", as they reduce the amount of harvesting and processing needed in their construction.
Green Alternatives to Wood Cabinets
Wheat board (made from compressed straw), aluminum, even recycled paper are all being used by manufacturers these days to create functional and attractive kitchen cabinets. You may not find too many of these at your local home improvement store but a kitchen cabinet contractor will usually be able to find you exactly what you are looking for and advise you on exactly the type of green kitchen cabinets that would be appropriate for your kitchen remodeling project.
Revamping the Cabinets You Have
You do not need to replace your existing kitchen cabinets completely in order to think green. If the basic structure and layout of your existing cabinetry is still sound then refinishing or replacing just the doors saves natural resources and reduces your “carbon footprint” as well.
