6 Sustainable Alternatives to Natural Stone Countertops
Selecting a kitchen countertop can be a hard decision to make. You have to consider durability, cost, ease of cleaning, and overall aesthetics. Although natural stone may be the most popular option, it can have environmental downsides.
Stone countertops are made from solid slabs of quarried stone- like marble, slate, granite etc. The quarrying and transport of huge stone slabs from different countries contributes to CO2 emissions, plus it often involves manual labor and unsafe work conditions for the workers.
In addition, many countertop surfaces, like granite, are made from non renewable resources and if not sealed properly, can off gas harmful chemicals like radon!
The good news is, there are a lot of sustainable and environmentally friendly countertop options that are cost conscious, durable, and beautiful for your home! The GA team has broken down and rated some our top countertop picks for a greener footprint:
Recycled Glass
Recycled glass countertops are made from pieces of glass “mulch” mixed with natural aggregates like porcelain or concrete, natural pigments, and resin, which are then cast into slabs. Terrazzo is an example of a stylish option made from 50%-95% recycled glass content!
Aesthetics: Comes in a large range of colors and finishes. Some brands have custom options to choose your unique mix of recycled content.
Care: Does not need to be sealed, is non-porous, and is scratch and heat resistant. Can be used in some outdoor applications.
Impact: Utilizes glass from recycled wine bottles, jars, windshields from cars, and architectural glass and repurposes it into a durable surface that can last for decades.
Price: $65-$140 per square foot.
Butcher Block and Reclaimed Wood
Wood is a great option for those who want a warm or rustic feel in their kitchen with the added function of being able to cut directly on the countertop surface. If you don’t want to fully commit to wood countertops, consider mixing materials and incorporating a wood work surface into your island.
Aesthetics: Has varying grain patterns and can be stained and refinished.
Care: Wood is porous so it must be sealed frequently to prevent bacteria growth. Use warm soapy water to clean the surface. Prone to nicks and scratches, but will take on a rustic appearance if you like it that way!
Impact: By repurposing existing wood, you’re lessening the environmental impact of cutting down more trees. Also, since wood is a renewable resource, your countertops can be recycled if you decide to change them!
Price: $30-$150 per square foot
Plaster
Using plaster as a countertop is great for those who love Mediterranean or Moroccan design. Tadelakt is the traditional Moroccan waterproof material and technique which has ben used in the baths and sinks of historic homes and palaces. It can take on a rustic appearance or have sleek and sharp edges for a more modern look. It just all depends on how the plaster is applied, so installation is key.
Aesthetics: Can be tinted any color, can have different surface textures.
Care: Must be sealed properly to ensure waterproof seal. Extremely durable and heat resistant. Naturally mold and mildew resistant. Difficult to repair if cracked.
Impact: Plaster is non-toxic and emits zero VOCS.
Price: $65-$135 per square foot
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is typically comprised of 65%-100% of recycled content making it a very eco conscious material! It’s extremely durable and can be used in kitchen, outdoor, and in workshop applications.
Aesthetics: Offers a sleek and modern look and has several finish options.
Care: Stain and heat resistant, but scratches easily and shows fingerprints. Clean with a microfiber cloth with warm and soapy water or use a stainless steel cleaner and polish.
Impact: Because stainless steel is made of recycled content, it keeps metal out of the landfills. Plus, if you choose to change your countertop, it can be recycled again!
Price: $80-$150 per square foot
Paper Composite
Post consumer paper waste can be made into countertops by taking the paper and compressing it into a solid block, then sealing it with a non-toxic resin to create an extremely durable surface. For those who love the look of soapstone, this is a great cost conscious option!
Aesthetics: Available in solid muted colors with a matte finish.
Care: Must be sealed periodically with mineral oil to prevent stains. Clean with a non abrasive household cleaner. Non-porous and highly resistant to scratching and staining. Heat resistant to 350º. Can be used in outdoor applications.
Impact: Comprised of 60%-100% recycled post consumer paper. Many manufacturers meet LEED and GreenGuard certification requirements.
Price: $40-$75 per square foot
Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast growing renewable resource that makes for a great countertop surface. It comes in a variety of grain patterns, and can be sanded down and resealed in the case of scratches, chips, and other marks.
Aesthetics: Comes in several grain patterns, but limited color options. Customizable edge design.
Care: Must be sealed to protect from water and heat damage. Can be cleaned with mild detergent and non abrasive cleaning tools. Can be sanded and refinished.
Impact: Bamboo is known for capturing and sequestering carbon which makes this material carbon negative during the manufacturing process. Meaning, the environmental benefits of bamboo offsets the environmental impacts of processing and transporting the material.
Price: $25-$100 per square foot
GA Notes on Natural Stone:
If you do select a natural stone countertop for your project, try to source from local producers or make sure you research where the stone is quarried and processed. Better yet, see if your local stone yard has any remnant slabs from previous projects that you can utilize for your space!
