Forests are disappearing at a rate of almost 1 million acres each week. This staggering speed of deforestation is forcing many world lumber companies and governments to rethink their manufacturing policies and business practices. A 70-75 foot tree that is cut for lumber can take up to 65 years to replace. Bamboo, on the other hand, is considered the world’s fastest growing plant and can be replaced in less than three months. Some species of bamboo can grow 3 feet per day.
There is a high consumer demand for green products that are environmentally friendly, durable, affordable and attractive. When given the choice of using high quality, ecologically friendly building materials over traditional products, consumers are overwhelmingly choosing products of a sustainable and environmentally conscious variety.
Many homeowners today are trying to balance maximizing the value of their homes with their concern for the environment, so have turned to using natural, renewable materials when making home improvements. Cabinetry is one feature in which natural hardwoods have long been highly prized, but hardwood forests can take decades to regenerate; their beauty and durability come at an ecological price.
Add to that the fact that the decimation of forest covers around the world may be a major factor in climate change, and the need for a natural hardwood cabinet substitute which can be easily renewed is even more crucial. One answer is bamboo cabinets. Bamboo cabinets will imbue your décor with a tropical aura, giving it an exotic atmosphere uniquely you own.
Ecologically minded homeowners can use roller shades as part of their living green lifestyle. A natural, eco-friendly lifestyle includes enjoyment of the outdoors, so these homeowners want window treatments that serve a double purpose. They want to enjoy their outdoor vistas, and at the same time use items in the home that are ecologically friendly and energy conserving. This is where roller shades can fit right into the environmental plan.
Window treatments, available in a great many styles, including those we are discussing here, can help control light and heat from entering or exiting a room. There are three main types of environmentally friendly blackout or sleep window shades, light filtering roller shades, and solar window shades. These can be functional or decorative, or both.