Although many of us wish it was, tile and stone are just not fitting into the picture of what many consider "green". The definition of a green product, in basic terms, is when it is made from recycled materials (be it pre-consumer, post-consumer or post-industrial) or created from easily renewable sources (bamboo for example). Manufacturers must be able to produce and distribute the materials in an Eco-friendly manner which limits the carbon footprint on the environment. Also, it must be produced in a relatively close (within 500 miles) proximity to the jobsite. By doing so, the energy and resources for transporting the materials will have less of an impact on the environment.
That being said, there are several manufacturers (Crossville leading the way) attempting to provide a product that meets the requirements set forth by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). The obstacles that the industry must overcome are difficult, at best. The method for manufacturing tile, for example, is a major obstacle because it requires a great deal of energy to produce. On top of that, tile is heavy. The weight of the tile complicates the moving and shipping. Heavy material means more energy to transport, again not the picture of eco-friendly.
The materials needed to manufacture tile, while abundant, are not of infinite supply and not renewable. Another strike.
Why in the world, then, would anyone want to choose tile or stone for a project? Well, tile does have some great characteristics (about time there was something good to hear, Huh?).
Compared to other flooring choices, tile out-performs them all. When properly installed, tile will last years longer. While the initial expense to purchase tile may be more, when compared side-by-side with other choices like vinyl sheet goods and hardwood, tile costs less per year ($.40 per square foot per year) than any other floor covering because of their shorter life span.
(Follow this link: http://www.tileusa.com/MasterWebForms/PDFs/TileNaturalChoice.pdf to view chart of side-by-side cost comparisons.)
Tile is also great for those with allergies. While some floor coverings deteriorate and release particles into the air, tile will not. The maintenance of tile and stone is quite a bit easier (and cheaper) than comparable flooring choices. Periodic sweeping or vacuuming and damp mopping is all that is needed for regular maintenance of tile. Adding stain resistant epoxy grouts will also improve the performance of the ease of maintenance.
Even though tile doesn't fit perfectly into the picture of a green product, should it be rejected out-right? The simple answer is...no.
The way that tile performs (when properly installed) helps to make it a smart (if not best) choice. If you really have to make a green decision...
I'm sure it comes in that color too!
Here are some helpful links about tile and other Green choices:
http://www.greenhomeguide.com/index.php/knowhow/entry/640/C225/
http://www.ecofriendlyflooring.com/index.html
http://www.motherearthnews.com/Green-Homes/Eco-Friendly-Recycled-Tile.aspx