The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that lighting, refrigeration and cooking are responsible for 41.5 percent of a home’s energy consumption. Fortunately, the popularity and technological efficiency of Energy Star appliances, compact fluorescent and LED light sources, and water conserving faucets have enabled homeowners to make the kitchen a greener and healthier space. Below are a few eco-friendly furnishings that meet style requirements too. (Click on any image for a larger version)
- Eco-Friendly Cabinetry: Modern kitchen cabinetry by ALNO features non-toxic paints and lacquers, free from heavy metals and low in emissions. Cabinets are made from recycled and regenerated wood from certified resources as well as the continued use of non-toxic laminates, aluminum, glass and technical veneers. ALNO only uses lumber, veneers and wood panels from fully managed and sustainable forests. ALNO Cabinetry was used for the Healthy Child, Healthy World green home in Austin, Texas. Visit ALNO USA
Alno Cabinets
- Energy-Efficient Lighting: Maximize natural lighting and look for fixtures that call for compact fluorescent bulbs. According to Energy Star, if every American home replaced just one incandescent bulb with a standard CFL, we would have enough energy to light more than three million homes per year. Studio Italia Design offers hip eco-friendly fixtures that lower the carbon footprint too. Try Tris for overhead task lighting. Visit Studio Italia Design
Studio Italia Lighting
- Lead-free faucets: Look for lead-free faucets when fashioning the healthy, green kitchen. Stainless steel faucet and fixture manufacturer MGS has become one of the first manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with the NSF’s Annex G. Certification, which contains requirements for low lead plumbing products and helps protect the public from exposure to lead. Lead is commonly found in household plumbing and water service lines, yet many faucet taps can include up to 8 percent lead, a level legally considered “lead-free.” Visit MGS Designs
Lead Free MGS Faucet
- Water-efficient faucets: The Steam Valve Original Collection by JACLO was engineered and designed with the idea of creating an industrial-looking stainless steel faucet that features cutting-edge technology and functionality. This classic collection is created from 100 percent high-grade, solid stainless steel. Stainless steel is a superior material and will last longer than most conventional faucets made from other materials. The Steam Valve Original Collection meets water-saving criteria, and is currently pending WaterSense approval. JACLO is a WaterSense partner. This collection is also in compliance with the new low-lead legislation that will be implemented in states including California and Vermont in 2010, stating that all products must contain no more than .25 percent lead content. Visit JACLO’s Website
Steam Valve Original by JACLO
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