If you are looking for a green flooring alternative for your bathroom, kitchen, or just about any other room of your house, you might want to look into linoleum. Linoleum is comfortable, resilient, and contains virtually no trace of toxic material. It is also anti-static, anti-microbial, hypoallergenic, and stain- and water-resistant.

Linoleum has been a mainstay in the flooring industry for over 100 years. Although it was originally produced with some non-renewable resources such as asbestos and heavy metals, it is now one of the few products made from primarily organic materials. Natural linoleum is made from linseed oil, pine resin, sawdust, cork dust, limestone and jute. These components make linoleum biodegradable and, theoretically, compostable (i.e. can be made into soil fertilizer).

Linoleum is a great all-natural alternative to other resilient floorings, like those made from polyvinyl chloride (such as sheet vinyl and vinyl composition tile). Some people still use the word linoleum to refer to vinyl flooring. Don't let this confuse you - they are not the same! When speaking to flooring retailers or manufacturers, make sure you specify that you are looking for "natural linoleum" and not vinyl.

While linoleum can be more costly than vinyl, this is offset by the fact that linoleum generally lasts longer. On average, linoleum can last 10-20 years longer than vinyl when cared for properly.

There are plenty of green flooring products that you can put in your home, and linoleum is one to consider. As long as you do your research, you should be able to find linoleum flooring that is both aesthetically appealing and better for the environment.

It should be noted that even though a particular product is made with renewable resources, it might not be entirely green. You should try to purchase flooring that is both manufactured and sold as close as possible to where you live. This can help minimize pollution as a result of the transportation of the flooring and floor products. Also, look for products that are manufactured in an environmentally-conscious manner, with a focus on pollution control. It may take some effort, but in the end you'll be left with the knowledge that you are doing your part to help preserve and protect our environment. Not to mention a beautiful and durable floor!