Counters made of long-lasting materials will withstand the test of time, since counters are subject to so many stresses (use, heat, humidity, etc.). The best eco-responsible choices should come from renewable resources, consume little water and energy in their production, and generate few greenhouse gases in their production and transportation.

Volatile organic compounds are greenhouse gases that have a direct negative effect on human health. Their volatility allows them to spread relatively far from the site of emission, so they can have both direct and indirect effects on health. It’s best to choose counters that meet the low emissions standards for volatile organic compounds and other toxins.

Our recommendations :

1. Natural stone counters, such as marble, granite, quartz, slate and steatite are healthy choices that respect the environment, especially if they are produced in the region where they are installed, cutting down on the energy and GHGs involved in their transportation.
2. Wood from certified forests, which encourages sustainable forestry, and FSC-certified bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource, are two of the more interesting options, but they need to be regularly maintained with solvent-free linseed or tung tree oil.
3. If you go with a stratified counter, choose a model with the core made of 100% urea-formaldehyde-free recycled fibres. Urea formaldehyde is used as a binder in many kinds of materials and is one of the most common air pollutants inside homes.
4. Ceramic with recycled content, mosaics with recycled glass and recycled glass counters (with a concrete or resin base) are healthy, long-lasting choices. The concrete must be covered with a sealant every year to maintain its water-resistance, and the joints in ceramics and mosaics can be complicated to maintain.
5. Metal counters (recycled stainless steel and recycled aluminum) are hygienic, easy to clean, emissions free and recyclable at end of life. The energy required for their production and transportation generates GHGs that should be amortized over the long term by choosing a high-quality product and maintaining it well.
6. Concrete counters with recycled glass or supplementary cementing materials are resistant, VOC-free and recyclable at the end of life, but they require more energy to produce and transport than most other choices. Also, because concrete is porous, these counters need to be sealed to prevent stains from becoming embedded and to make them easier to maintain.

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