When looking for ways to go green, many homeowners overlook their flooring. Studies conducted by the EPA have shown that indoor pollutants can be five times higher than those found outside. One of the reasons has to do with the existence of volatile organic compounds in the home. Volatile organic compounds occur during the manufacturing process of many common household items including wood furniture, vinyl flooring, upholstery and carpet flooring. Such compounds release fumes and vapors into the air – a process known as off gassing, which can cause a wide array of health problems to you and your family including nausea, headaches and fatigue. To eliminate pollutants in your home and keep your air clean, choose eco-friendly flooring. Eco-friendly flooring gives new life to recycled items and does not use unnecessary chemicals during the manufacturing process.

Several factors come into play on what makes flooring eco-friendly. When shopping for your "green floor," keep these questions in mind.

How long the flooring will last. The durability of the flooring is important not only for your wallet but also for the environment. If the floor will require replacing every few years, that is more garbage in the landfill and more money out of your budget.

What the floor is made from. Is the floor made from a renewable or fast-growing source? Bamboo and cork flooring are two of the most eco-friendly flooring options, and work well as an alternative to hardwood floors. Bamboo grows quickly which makes it a renewable resource. Cork is removed from just the tree bark so the tree is never cut down. For carpeting, choose natural materials -- such as wool -- instead of synthetic fibers that require extra chemicals during the manufacturing process.

What chemicals are used or not used in the production of the flooring. When looking for your eco-friendly flooring, do not be afraid to ask questions about the manufacturing process. If possible, research online how the specific flooring is made. Knowing the ins and outs of the production process will inform you of just what you will be using in your home.

Once you have chosen the environmentally friendly flooring, your next step will be flooring installation. However, installing the floors typically involves using toxic glue that can lead to respiratory problems. If possible, use nontoxic or all-natural glues for hard flooring and carpet tacking for carpeting.

After the new flooring is installed, you still have the headache of trying to get rid of the old flooring. If possible, find a recycling center that will take old flooring such as carpet or hardwood. If the carpet is in fairly good condition, remove it from the floor carefully and offer it to a friend or family member who may be able to use it in their home.

By simply choosing eco-friendly flooring, you will go a long way to improve the environment for you and your family.