# Tile or Porcelain: Which is OK to Use?

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/05/tile-or-porcelain-which-is-ok-to-use/
- Published: 2015-05-29T17:56:51-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

Recently a [reader](https://web.archive.org/web/20190523045214/http://sarantile.com/)
and owner of a tile and porcelain business asked me whether or not their products
are eco-friendly, expressing concerns about the environmental impact of manufacturing
processes and the materials used. They were particularly interested in understanding
how their offerings compared to more sustainable alternatives available in the market.
This inquiry led us to discuss various aspects, such as the sourcing of raw materials,
the energy consumption during production, and potential recycling options for their
products at the end of their life cycle, highlighting the growing importance of 
sustainability in today’s consumer landscape.

## Here’s the deal:

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) ruled in 2012 that the standard for recycled
content claims and documentation for LEED projects aims to bring further transparency
to green building. This is achieved through accurate recycled content reporting 
for those looking to achieve points for MRc4 Recycled Content.

So while it is best to check whether it is certified, there is an effort to make
tile, ceramic, and porcelain eco-friendly. Many eco-friendly and LEED certified 
buildings use porcelain and tiles. So it’s not bad!

Here are some examples.

[⌊A modern interior featuring sleek black chairs, a coffee table, and wooden shelves
with books and decor, all set against a light-colored tiled floor.⌉⌊A modern interior
featuring sleek black chairs, a coffee table, and wooden shelves with books and 
decor, all set against a light-colored tiled floor.⌉[

Modern interior featuring durable porcelain flooring and stylish furniture.

### Tiles

Did you know that you can actually install [sustainable recycled tiles to create](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/07/we-can-save-water-through-sustainable-communities-through-acts-in-public-works/)
a visual masterpiece? Yes! You can use sustainable kitchen tiles in a variety of
textures and colors.

_I_t would be especially helpful to mention that you have to get rid of the natural
stones and [old growth timber if you really](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/07/newest-strategy-for-saving-bees-is-really-really-old/)
want to go eco-friendly. Instead, invest in cork, bamboo, or plantation timber.

### LEED Buildings use Stylish Tile

A newly [renovated LEED certified building](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/06/department-of-defense-study-finds-new-aerosol-air-sealing-method-highly-effective-for-building-renovation/)
in NYC at 4540 Center Boulevard uses high-quality tile not only for aesthetic appeal
but also for its durability and sustainability benefits. The choice of tile in this
modern structure showcases a commitment to eco-friendly materials that enhance energy
efficiency and contribute to improved air quality. So why can’t you embrace these
innovative solutions for your own space? Investing in similar materials can lead
to a more environmentally conscious lifestyle while providing long-lasting beauty
and functionality to your home or office.

[⌊Modern kitchen with sleek cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and light wooden
flooring, showcasing an open layout.⌉⌊Modern kitchen with sleek cabinetry, stainless
steel appliances, and light wooden flooring, showcasing an open layout.⌉[

Stylish and eco-friendly kitchen featuring durable porcelain flooring and modern
finishes.

_[Residences at the upscale rental property offer](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/03/enercore-currently-offering-solar-garden-to-supply-residents-with-clean-energy-in-foxborough-and-hopkinton-massachusetts/)
spacious layouts and stunning floor-to-ceiling views of the Manhattan skyline. They
have upscale finishes, including hardwood flooring, closets with built-ins, stainless
steel appliances, and stylish tile backsplashes in the kitchen._

### United Airlines Terminal B Houston

[United](https://web.archive.org/web/20180614033858/https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/company/global-citizenship/environment.html)
incorporated energy efficiency features in the design and construction of the new
Terminal B at its Houston hub.

The airline designed its [United Clubs to incorporate many sustainable](https://greenlivingguy.com/2009/12/eco-forum-uniting-sustainable-minds-and-ideas/)
design elements. These not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the spaces but also
promote environmental responsibility. Features include energy-efficient [LED lighting that reduces](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/05/restaurant-green-led-lighting-reduces-utility-bills/)
electricity consumption. There are low-flow toilets and lavatories that significantly
decrease water usage.

### Durable Porcelain Tiling

The durable porcelain tiling contributes to a longer lifespan of the facilities.
In addition, the selection of [sustainable fabrics and fixtures ensures that materials](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/09/ford-fabric-recycled-material-for-a-sustainable-future/)
are environmentally friendly and ethically sourced. This [creates a comfortable atmosphere for travelers](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/04/new-thomas-jefferson-solar-canopy-at-mount-rushmore-national-memorial-amps-up-efforts-by-xanterra-travel-collection-to-create-greener-national-parks-memorials/)
while minimizing the ecological footprint. This commitment to [sustainability reflects the airline’s broader goal](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/01/epa-helps-22-communities-to-meet-their-sustainability-goals-and-foster-economic-development/)
to foster eco-friendly practices within the aviation industry. It also inspires 
passengers to engage in environmentally conscious behaviors.

[⌊A modern bathroom featuring stylish marble wall tiles, a sleek black vanity with
open shelving, and elegant mirrors.⌉⌊A modern bathroom featuring stylish marble 
wall tiles, a sleek black vanity with open shelving, and elegant mirrors.⌉[

A stylish bathroom featuring sustainable materials, including elegant porcelain 
tiles and a modern vanity.

So while originally you might have thought these [products weren’t green](https://greenlivingguy.com/2008/08/read-the-labels-on-all-green-products/),
in most cases, they actually are. Ask yourself, would you use a plastic cup in a
coffee house or a reused porcelain cup? This simple question serves as a profound
reflection on our daily choices and their environmental impacts. It’s important 
to understand that not everything is as straightforward as you might think; sometimes,
the seemingly obvious options are not the most sustainable. The perception of what
constitutes an eco-friendly product can be distorted by marketing strategies and
societal norms, leading us to overlook alternatives that better align with our values
for sustainability. By being mindful and questioning the materials and habits we
engage with, we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint and promote a culture
that values green practices in our everyday lives.

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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