Cork, one of my favorite types of "green" flooring, is actually made from the bark of the cork oak tree. Cork flooring is considered a renewable and sustainable resource because harvesting it does not harm the tree. Instead, the tree regenerates its bark and the cork can be harvested again in 9-10 years. Because the cork tree can live over 200 years, this means that it can be harvested up to 20 times during its life cycle, making a whole lot of cork flooring. A hardwood tree, on the other hand, is gone for good once it is harvested. There is no regeneration of wood, only replanting and waiting for the tree to grow, which can take decades.

Also adding to cork flooring's green flooring status is cork's ability to be cultivated without the use of fertilizers or pesticides. As another added bonus, it can also be harvested without the use of intensive energy guzzling machines and is often finished with low to no VOC coating products. An added bonus is corks resiliency. The floor is naturally springing assisting anyone with aching joints. If you have every had to stand on concrete for a long day, then you will appreciate living and walking on cork.

Though cork flooring is one of the most well known green flooring options available, it is important to remember that not all manufacturers are being responsible in their production of cork flooring. Beware of cork that may contain formaldehyde, phenol or acetic acid. Be sure to ask your retailer about any possible VOCs that your cork may contain. For more tips on this subject, visit FindAnyFloor's green flooring section on cork flooring.