Consumers are trying harder and harder to be eco-friendly these days, and their efforts extend into the outdoor furniture category too. Until recently, the options available were slim and expensive and didn’t always incorporate interesting designs. That’s all changed and now there are well-made, interesting designs to be found in all price categories.

Much of this is due to manufacturers becoming more conscious and in tune with public awareness of the environment. They now recycle old material and avoid chemicals which can do harm. The concern about future recycling is also of great importance to them. This is fantastic news for consumers and for the environment itself, and the techniques used don’t make outdoor furniture necessarily cost an arm and a leg.

By far, the greenest products out there today are those made of 100% recycled plastic. The process of injection molding has advanced to a point that more stylish designs are available. While some are traditional and even look like wood, others are slick and modern in design. The days of the stacking chairs from discount stores are drawing to a close, and consumers who used to hide them can now have products to be proud of instead.

Also high on the eco-friendly scale are aluminum products. Most don’t realize that today at least 31% of all aluminum is now recycled and the percentage grows annually. In the process some amazing new designs are coming out of a renewed interest in the material. Consequently, many new styles are to be found in all market areas. Whether traditional or modern, this is a huge bonus for consumers both with a nod to the environment and to their bank book.

Teak has long been a favorite for those concerned about ecology, but teak is no longer a sustainable wood. This is in large part due to gross mismanagement of forests in Indonesia, Thailand and India. Many forests have been degraded and won’t return anytime soon. But American teak forests are under proper management and are still providing the fantastic beauty of outdoor furniture. It may be more expensive but the consumer who makes the purchase can also be assured that it is the right expenditure for ecology.

The most fragile of sustainable materials is rattan and wicker, and both are widely available in all price ranges. Both grow in abundance and are in no danger of being mismanaged anywhere. While each requires more general maintenance than other hardier materials, they have an elegance and warmth that is unsurpassed. Just a little effort in keeping them painted and varnished ensure years of use as well as letting them become more valuable as collectibles in time.

Many manufacturers are now working with eco-friendly materials and will provide consumers extensive information about their efforts on their websites. They explain not only where their materials originate but how their manufacturing is achieved. The consumer will also find that a certain percentage of profits often goes to environmental groups.

Not only is becoming greener a sensible step to take but it is being made easier with fabulous design work and competitive prices. Whether outdoor furniture is made of recycled materials or from those of sustainable forests, it means that being eco-minded doesn’t have to look boring. Green products are now found in big box stores as well as from high-end distributors so the selections are vast and easy to find.

Being eco-friendly can simply mean making what you already own last longer through better maintenance and cleaning so it will be replaced less frequently. It can also mean that buying new outdoor furniture will be something that helps the environment too.

Author Bio: If you want to know more about wicker patio furniture, then visit Gabriel Meriwether’s site and see some of the best patio dining sets available.

Category: Home Management
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