25 Apr Sustainable Cabinets in Your Kitchen Design
[Updated August 2020]
As we continue to learn and understand our impact on the Earth, the need for eco-friendly products in home renovation continues to rise. Not only do sustainable elements use less resources, they are also more cost-efficient long-term. They help protect our planet by lowering pollution levels and ensure a healthier environment for ourselves and future generations. Sustainable cabinets in your kitchen design is a smart way to make a positive impact.
Since cabinetry is arguably the largest footprint in any kitchen design, it’s important to look for cabinet materials that are carefully sourced and crafted. This includes products manufactured with low emissions, sustainable forestry, and recycled materials.
Green Practices
At BKC Kitchen and Bath, our cabinet manufacturers follow the strict guidelines of the Forest Stewardship Council. The purpose of this council is to ensure that wood-sourcing is conducted in a way which avoids further depletion of the environment. In addition to having FSC certification, each of our cabinet companies is a member of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) Environmental Stewardship Program. This program monitors the following aspects of sustainability in the construction and manufacturing fields:
- Air Quality – low emissions
- Product Resource Management – recycled materials and sustainable forestry
- Process Resource Management – energy conservation and waste management processes
- Environmental Stewardship – firm commitment to environmental protection
- Community Relations – community involvement
Green Cabinetry
Crystal Cabinet Works, Inc. was initially involved with the development of the Environmental Stewardship Program. As a result, they follow strict manufacturing guidelines and sustainability practices that include: no added formaldehyde (NAF) cabinet construction, low-emitting and rapidly-renewable cabinet components, and an ultra-low emitting topcoat. Crystal also builds their premium custom maple and cherry cabinets using only FSC-certified wood.
Medallion Cabinetry partners with suppliers to ensure continued environmental stewardship. They select materials manufactured to meet or surpass current regulatory requirements, including low formaldehyde emissions. They’ve also substantially reduced emissions by working in partnership with finish suppliers to develop improved coatings and filtration systems.
David Bradley Cabinetry sustainability practices include: recycling of all wood waste material by producing wood pellets; ensuring cabinet components are Carb Phase II compliant; using energy-efficient lighting throughout their facilities.
Green Countertops
Solid surfaces developed from sustainable materials are a great complement to eco-friendly cabinetry. Engineered products such as Silestone and Caesarstone quartz countertops are durable and elegant. Additionally, they emit low VOCs, need no sealing, and often include recycled components. Barn-wood butcher blocks and recycled glass countertops, such as Vetrazzo, are also beautiful options for unique, environmentally-friendly surfaces.
If you would like to discuss options for your kitchen or bath with a design that utilizes sustainable products, contact us today.
