"Humanity has the ability to make development sustainable - to ensure that it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
- Bruntland Commision

 

 

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Looking to learn more about the sustainable design movement?
Read all about it at the IDSA website.

 
     
  nourishdesign.com > Learn > Materials  
 
     
 

Whether you're an artist looking to construct your next masterpiece or your a contractor specifying parts for your next big project, there are numerous green alternatives to traditional materials. Listed below are several material directories as well as individual vendors that provide replacements to common materials like wood and plastic.

 
     
     
  Material Directories  
     
 
   
 
     
     
  Compostable Bio-Plastics  
     
 
A handful of companies have developed corn-based plastics that are fully biodegradable in commercial composters. This polymer material, known as PLA, is ideal for thermoforming, extruding, and injection molding applications such as cold-drink cups, garbage bags, and disposable cutlery.
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
  Recycled Alternatives to Wood  
     
 
Alternatives to Fiberboard:
Fiberboard is a common building material that is typically made with virgin pulp and toxic adhesives. Try these greener alternatives.
 
ShetkaStone.com   SierraPine.com
 
Recycled Rubber Flooring:
Recycled rubber is a rugged material that puts old tires to good use. Consider using recycled rubber tiles on your next project.
 
ToMarket.com   Yemm&Hart.com
 
Recycled Plastic Lumber:
Plastic lumber is a great alternative to wood for outdoor applications, as it is inherently weather-proof. Consider using recycled plastic lumber on your next project.
 
AmericanRecycledPlastic.com