green business
Two years ago, Kauffman Tharp ordered paint from Great Britain but now the Mythic brand is available at Terrene, among others. Coulter said it is "the only zero toxic, no VOC product on the market. The industry isn't regulated, although that's coming, so you can't trust all lines." He recommends alternative all-purpose cleaners; soy-based paint removers strong enough to work on lead-based paint, eliminating the need for scraping; and natural sealants that can block out-gassing. Floor and furniture finishes from Vermont Natural Coatings are
Delivering Relaxation
made from whey, a byproduct of cheese- making. The coatings can be tinted and used as a stain and finish all in one. In addition to products that don't emit formaldehyde, wood cabinetry can be envi- ronmentally responsible, sourced from "friendly timber harvesting." This includes cork or bamboo, which is strong, durable, and easier on the feet than traditional hardwoods, said Coulter. Countertops for kitchens, baths, and desks are now made of recycled bottles, windshields, or con- crete as well as natural stone. You can even buy carpets made from recycled Coke and water bottles. Thomas Buckborough, an Acton archi- tect whose firm specializes in green renova- tions, says energy efficiency is essential to
For more information: ★US Environmental Protection Agency:
www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/insidestory.html ★Lisa Kauffman Tharp's blog offers many resources for building healthier: www.ktharpdesign.com
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the task. "Green construction is good con- struction because it will last and not have to be redone," he said. "We do lots of prob- lem-solving, like fixing ice dams so roofs are less prone to mold and heat loss." In addition to recycled glass countertops, he favors New England-sourced materials, like New Hampshire granite and Massachusetts pine. "They are more eco-friendly than other quarried materials. Stone from China
38 ★ north bridge magazine ★ SPRING/SUMMER 2012