Did you know that your typical nylon carpet has over 120 known toxins in it? There's also an enormous amount of waste generated from carpet. If you're set on carpet, consider wool as it's a natural, renewable alternative that repels dirt. Recycled carpet and carpet panels cut down waste and will gain you points toward green certification, but be aware that they are not necessarily made out of healthy materials.
If it's wood flooring you're after you can save resources by using reclaimed and salvaged wood. Reclaimed and salvaged wood often has more character while maintaining the quality of a new product. If you must have something new, make sure it's sustainably harvested instead of clear cut by looking for a FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification.
Some alternatives to wood are cork, bamboo, and stone. Cork trees are the only trees that regrow their bark (in about 10 years). Be aware of the species and source you choose for bamboo. There's a lot of variation in the durability and transporting it long distances takes away from the original environmental benefits. Stone is an attractive and sturdy alternative if it's sourced locally. It also provides thermal mass for passive solar heating.
Beyond Waste
(707) 792-2555 http://www.beyondwaste.com/
Bob Murnane Carpets
(707) 543-8099
www.bobmurnanecarpets.com
Carpet Center
(707) 836-7007
http://www.carpetcenterftc.com/
Craftsman Floor Covering
(707) 778-6608
Hendricksen Naturlich Flooring
(707) 829-3959
http://www.naturalfloors.net/
Healdsburg Floor Coverings
(707) 433-8008
Heritage Salvage
(707) 762-6277
http://www.heritagesalvage.com/
Interior Flooring, Inc. (World of Carpets)
(707) 528-6210
http://www.worldofcarpetscarpet1.com/
Natural Home Design Center
(707) 824-0914
http://www.naturalhomeproducts.com/
Quality Flooring Center
(707) 763-9663 http://www.qualityflooringcenter.com/
Signature Floor Coverings
(707) 586-9900
Spiteri Brothers Flooring
(707) 226-7543
