"Our goal is to do what is right for the environment and our clients health. Therefore, all of our interiors are as sustainable as possible," says Kristin Dorais, Sr. Interior Designer, Integrated Architecture (Grand Rapids, Mich.). "In the past, when we have specified vinyl, we evaluated it based upon the application, how the vinyl is manufactured, its recycled content, life cycle and VOC levels. As the sustainable movement has progressed and we gain more knowledge, we've moved to a more thorough evaluation of the product. We now review the product's "recycled" content and how that is going to affect the environment and indoor air quality in the future."

Several vinyl-flooring manufacturers have pledged to offer a sustainable vinyl product. Tarkett Commercial (www.tarkett.com), for example, is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and considers it their mission to make prudent use of available natural resources, and develop new ways to become even more environmentally responsible and proactive.