When it comes to interior design, we all have a personal vision, different style influences, and a template of design goals to meet. However, it’s time to look at interior designing from a global and conscientious perspective; one that takes into account the materials we use, how we get them, and what effect we have on Mother Earth.

Now more than ever, the impact of our decisions makes a global difference. The choices we make matter, from the toothpaste we use to the cars we drive to the products we choose to create the spaces in which we live. We are fortunate to have an array of innovative interior products and materials that not only are beautiful but contribute to the reduction of energy waste.

Many of these environmentally friendly products are made from recycled former material or are produced from "sustainable" sources that can be grown and harvested at a much faster pace. Here are just a few GO-GREEN products you may be able to utilize the next time you decide to decorate the interior of your home. 

Bamboo Floors

Bamboo floors make a beautiful, warm, environmentally friendly upgrade that can be enjoyed for many years. Most bamboo flooring is manufactured with adhesives that contain a urea formaldehyde resin which is not only bad for you but for the environment. Lower priced bamboo flooring can have formaldehyde emissions where as premium bamboo flooring contains virtually no formaldahyde. There are a wide variety of bamboo floors available that are not harmful to you or the environment. To track down the one that's right for you check out: www.greenfoors.com or www.ghsproducts.com.

Terrazzo Countertops

Terrazzo countertops are a great "green" upgrade. They're constructed with a collection of stone, glass and various binders. A few companies utilize recycled glass from landfills, which is a great benefit to the environment. When purchasing Terrazzo countertops make sure to check the recycled content percentage that is used in production (should be above 80%) and that they have low VOC emissions (they're basically emitted gases which can cause adverse health effects). These countertops are not only durable but have a great look of "depth" to them. If you're interested in getting more information on Terrazzo countertops check out www.greenbydesign.com. Just type in the word "countertops" in their search engine. 

Hemp Curtains / Table Cloths / Decor

Hemp fiber has many benefits to the environment. It's unique in that is grows extremely fast in almost any kind of environment, uses very little water and requires no pesticides or herbicides. The skin of this plant is extremely durable, making it one of the most versatile plants on earth. The fibers are considered one of the strongest known to mankind, next to silk making Hemp a perfect material to utilize when redesigning various rooms in your home. Check out various hemp curtains at www.RAWganique.com.

Other products you can utilize in greening your decor are water based glues, stains, paint, recycled tile, "green" carpet and furnishings.  By doing this you can not only help our planet but improve the environment we live, work and breath in.

L.E.E.D. (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a wonderful source for "green" building and consumer products for interior design. Another organization is USGBC (U.S. Green Building Council). By utilizing these and many other highly accredited sources, we can all become more savvy at creating interior spaces that are beautiful but also safe. This gives us the power to forever alter the landscape of interior environments while simultaneously changing the mindset and attitude of future consumers and builders.