In part 3 of our sustainability series, we're looking at tree harvesting practices. Our country strives to protect our precious forests while simultaneously working to meet our housing needs. We're proud of the way wood flooring is being sourced today in these 4 ways: 1. Reforestation: With the understanding that planting trees is key to maintaining a healthy ecosystem, the U.S. is actively involved in reforestation efforts. Forest restoration projects are underway across the nation, promoting biodiversity and sustainability. 2. Harvesting Regulations: The U.S. has established comprehensive harvesting regulations to prevent overcutting and protect vulnerable areas such as old-growth forests and wildlife habitats. These regulations ensure that logging activities are carried out responsibly and sustainably. 3. Certification: The United States boasts rigorous certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). These programs ensure that the timber and paper products we use come from responsibly managed forests 4. Conservation Partnerships: Collaboration is crucial! The United States collaborates with various organizations, including environmental groups, local communities, and industry stakeholders, to develop and implement sustainable forestry practices. Together, we're fostering a culture of responsible sourcing. Footprints Floors of Greater Rhode Island celebrates the efforts being made to protect our forests and ensure a thriving future for generations to come!

In part 2 of our sustainability series, we look at the total carbon footprint of products (measured in kg of CO2 released for each square meter of flooring materials used). The facts speak for themselves: you can greatly reduce your carbon footprint when you choose to install hardwood or engineered wood in your home! Thanks to the efforts of organizations and government agencies, there has been a significant increase in the use of sustainable wood harvesting practices, which ensures that our forests remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come. By choosing products made from sustainably harvested wood, we can support this important effort and help protect our environment. Give Footprints Floors of Greater Rhode Island a call today to get an estimate on sustainable flooring options, like hardwood and engineered wood floors! #sustainableflooring #cleanhousing #gwp #reducecarbonfootprint #flooring #gogreen

For the month of May, we will be featuring a 4-part sustainability series about hardwood—the "green" standard in flooring material. This post specifically focuses on our favorite sustainability factor of hardwood: REFINISHING! Although we frequently tout the benefits, costs, and low maintenance of LVP and engineered wood floors, nothing can truly compare to high-quality, locally sourced hardwood floors. Yes, it can scratch; it is susceptible to moisture; it's susceptible to sun damage; but, in the end, hardwood can be sanded and refinished repeatedly! We regularly see original hardwood floors installed before WWII, which still look amazing. You simply can't say that about most flooring options on the market today! The IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute determined that refinishing your hardwood floor rather than replacing it with a similar product, achieves a 78%-92% reduction in carbon emissions. We're pretty excited about that! #sustainableflooring #hardwoodfloors #hardwood #ivl