Being a leader in new and innovative floor coverings has its perks, but with them comes a responsibility to maintain our local and global environment. Floor coverings of the past have not always been "environmentally friendly" because of the heavy use of chemicals and raw materials. But with ever-increasing technology and a growing concern for the environment, manufacturers have developed products that reuse existing materials to create new floor coverings. Rubber floor tiles are being created from recycled tires, porcelain tile is being created from recycled tile, and carpet is being manufactured using wasted yarn that would otherwise be discarded.
In addition to using recycled material, flooring manufacturers have also searched out new resources that are easily renewable. The hardwoods of the past, though still fashionable and heavily used, take decades to grow back before they can be utilized again. Bamboo and cork are easily renewable materials because they are harvested in a unique way that leaves the tree (or chute) standing. The result is more frequent harvesting and a considerably smaller impact on the environment.
The environmental focus in West Michigan is evident more and more every year. Recently, GRI has undertaken several LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) projects including the Calvin College Nature Preserve Interpretive Center and the office building of 70 Ionia. Our associates have the knowledge required to navigate through the processes and steps involved with a LEED rated project. We are willing and able to search out the suitable products for our customer's needs and make sure that they meet the criteria for achieving their LEED rating.
