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Good To Be Green'sGuide To Green Home Building
The most common countertops are built using DuPont™ Corian®, however, plastic laminate (Formica), tile, and granite has been growing in popularity. Because of its petroleum base, Corian® and other solid, machineable counter materials are a poor ecological choice. Granite countertops are less-than-sustainable due to the environmental damage caused by quarrying practices and the high embodied energy incurred by shipping such a heavy item. The ideal countertop material should have high recycled content and have a solid, nonporous surface that is stain and scratch-proof. The counter should attach directly to the cabinet framing to avoid the need for underlayment and adhesives.
Locally produced hardwoods can be a good choice for countertops. Appropriate types include maple, birch and mesquite.
A reliable, durable choice for countertops. Although they can come in the form of stone or wood, a number of companies are making countertops from other waste products such as glass cullet and even paper.