96 percent of wallpapers tested contained PVC and other toxic chemicals
A report released last fall by the non-profit Ecology Center revealed that a majority of home improvement products are filled with toxic chemicals.
Of the over 2,300 types of wallpaper tested, from 11 different brands and manufacturers. 96 percent contained PVC (polyvinyl chloride) coatings. One of the most common materials used in consumer products, PVC contains phthalates, which accumulate in our body tissues, can damage our liver and lungs, and have been shown to cause damage to reproductive organs in lower mammals.
Rather than installing wall coverings that could prove hazardous to your family’s health, there’s an equally beautiful, eco-friendly alternative.
Trove's elegant, eco-friendly wallpapers focus on themes found in Nature
New York-based design house Trove has introduced their REDEUX wallcoverings for both commercial and residential use.
“Trove strives to create a product that’s minimally harmful and least impactful to our endangered world,” says Jee Levin, Trove’s co-founder and creator.
Along with adding elegance to a room, Redeux wall coverings are earth and people friendly. Made from over 31 percent post-consumer recycled materials, these lovely wallpapers are highly breathable, unlike conventional wall coverings.
“A lot of vinyl wall coverings peel off the walls,” said Levin. In a bathroom, that can create an environment perfect for mold.
Redeux’s breathability increases resistance to mold and mildew, especially in humid environments.
Redeux wallpapers also produce no off-gassing and has low VOC emissions, both of which help create a healthier air quality. They’re a perfect alternative to PVC-laced vinyl wallcoverings.
Trove’s wallpapers are known for their durability. Their UV resistant inks will last for 140 years, though the product’s lifespan – the combination of laminates, coatings, ink, etc. – may not last quite as long. These wall coverings have a non-toxic, wax-based protective coating and are printed on commercial-grade paper.
Trove's Indi wallpaper is a tribute to Hitchcock's famous "The Birds"
Redeux wall coverings are a surprising combination of color and elements found in Nature.
One of their selections really caught my eye. Their Indi wallpaper is an action shot of a flock of blackbirds in flight.
“It’s a classic motif,” said Levin. And, she said, it’s unusual, particularly for wallpaper, which generally shows birds as static or motionless.
A graphic tribute to Alfred Hitchcock and his film “The Birds”, Indi was the winner of a design award in 2009.
Trove wallcovereings are designed with sustainability in mind. Everything is custom printed to the exact measurements of the design project.
“We only print as much material as people need to use,” Levin said.
The company has established a reclamation or recycling program too. If there’s any excess or waste material, it can be sent back to Trove for reuse as part of a new wall covering or to be recycled as another industrial material.
That’s yet another green “plus” of Redeux. Standard PVC vinyl is difficult to recycle and is hazardous to dispose of.
“(Redeux is) a green, healthy product,” said Levin.
Redeux comes in a full line of patterns, custom colors and beautiful custom designs that are perfect for either residential or hospitality settings. Available in showrooms in Los Angeles, New York and in Canada, designers can also order it – with a fast turnaround of around three weeks. It’s available online at www.troveline.com.
Filed under: Cool useful product | Tagged: Alfred Hitchcock, chemicals, eco-friendly, Ecology Center, environment, green, low Voc, Nature, phthalates, post consumer, PVC, recycled, recycling, Redeux, sustainability, The Birds, toxic, Trove, wallcoverings | Leave a comment »
After all the hullabaloo four months ago about the 
Two recycling companies
PPG Industries
No matter the holiday, there will always be those who wait till the very last minute to get a gift for their special someone. Valentine’s Day is no exception.
There’s actually a hotline that lets consumers find out where to locate opportunities to recycle packing foam peanuts in their geographic area.
How do you find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for that special someone in your life?I’ve got some unique, eco-friendly suggestions. From surprise gifts to organic bodycare to gifts with a little spice, there’s something here that’s sure to please the most discriminating giftee.
Envirothink 