Materials
To look at what makes a product green or not is much more of a complex question than it first appears.
It is widely understood that green materials are those which have the least impact on the environment but in most cases you have to look at the source of the product.
There are many companies currently on the market which are offering green products and although the product itself appears to green you have to check how it was made and what materials were used in the making of the product ( and where did they come from) and also take into account transportation costs and chemical use.
Gestor Energetico and The Energy Debate Team understand this market and can help consult you on the sourcing of green products. We have also included in these pages some tips on what to look for when purchasing certain construction materials such as bricks or paint.
Always double check any product you wish to buy. Here are some tips to consider when choosing your materials;
1. Has the product (if possible) come from a renewable source ( i.e wood where it is clearly stated that the company has a replanting program)
2. Where has the product come from? If it is a weighty product and comes from far away are there more local versions available?
3. What materials would have been used in making the product, have a look at some of the chemicals listed and also think about where some of the raw materials have come from ( if it has come from extensive manufacturing processes such as mining, these processes are often very environmentally unfriendly and release a lot of Co2).
4. Can you recycle your product after you have finished with it.
5. Does your product give any extra information about its environmental impact and if it does check out what they saying.
6. How long will the product last? Products with a longer life span are more sustainable as they do not have to be replaced so often as also are products that need less maintenance and are stronger.
7. Weight- Normally lighter products are easier and cheaper to transport
