lesson 3
Choosing
Non-Toxic and Sustainable Materials
Lesson 3
Choosing Non-Toxic and Sustainable Materials
Lesson 4
Sustainable Living: Clean Air and Post-Renovation Care
Lesson 5
Final Lesson: Summary and Useful Materials
Lesson 0
Kick-off Lesson
Lesson 1
Sustainable Renovation: Need-to-Know Basis
Lesson 2
Planning Your Sustainable Renovation

Hi! Long time no see.

Half the journey to understanding what sustainable renovation means is behind you.

Now you will definitely not be scared by words like VOCs and PPE, and you will be able to easily explain the differences between a linear and circular economy and explain to a neighbour, friend or colleague, as well as what to consider when starting renovation.


It’s time to move on to something without which no renovation can be imagined.

That’s right! In this lesson, we will look at the criteria that should be followed when choosing materials for sustainable renovation and what is definitely worth paying attention to.
But this time you won't be alone 😉
Meet Sofia.
She recently decided to renovate her apartment. This isn’t her first renovation, but this time she wants to do it according to the principles of sustainability. She’ll be a great partner for you in this lesson, helping you better understand the topic.
Besides, studying together will be easier and more fun 😊
  • Hi!
    For me, renovation is a state of mind 😅
    I love bringing something new into my home. And now, I want to take it to a new level and add sustainability to this process.
    I hope that together we will learn how to do this ☺️
  • Not so fast. I've managed to learn something about sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
    Actually, this topic is surrounded by different opinions, some of which can mislead consumers during renovations. Here is a list of just a few of them.
  • I wonder how many myths about sustainable and eco-friendly materials you managed to dispel... 😏
    For me, almost all of these points were quite unexpected.

    Anyway, the goal of this course is to bring clarity to this topic, so that in the future you will be able to choose the best materials for your renovation.
  • Great to hear it!

    Now that all the misperceptions about sustainable materials have been busted, let's get ready to shop and see what criteria are important when choosing materials for renovation. Because safe and environmentally friendly materials are the key to your family's health, as well as the longevity and safety of your renovation.
    Shopping is my favourite part! 😍

Why do you need criteria for renovation materials selection?

Some renovation materials are quite easy to choose because there are limited options available. For example, in a bathroom, tiles are most likely to be used in the wet area as the most affordable and efficient choice.

Conversely, other building materials can come in a wide variety of forms (e.g., floor coverings, paints), which differ not only in price and appearance, but also in how safe they are for health or how sustainably they are produced. A step-by-step evaluation of the selection criteria can help narrow down the options to just a few. Let's explore these selection criteria in more detail.

(Don’t worry: step-by-step guides for choosing the main types of materials for renovation — such as floor coverings and paints — will be discussed further).
  • Price
    Affordability remains essential, with long-term benefits like durability and energy savings often justifying higher upfront costs.
  • Aesthetics and functionality
    Materials should balance practical use with visual appeal, meeting both design goals and functional needs.
  • Non-toxicity
    Materials free of harmful chemicals like VOCs, phthalates, and formaldehyde are chosen to ensure safer indoor air quality and protect occupant health.
  • Durability and repairability
    Long-lasting materials reduce the need for replacements, while repairable options extend their usability, ensuring functionality over time.
  • Energy efficiency
    Materials that enhance insulation or improve energy use, such as energy-efficient windows, help maintain indoor comfort and lower energy consumption.
  • Reusability and circularity
    Materials designed for reuse or recycling ensure they retain value and contribute to reducing waste after their initial lifecycle.
  • Sustainable production
    Certified materials, such as those with FSC or Cradle to Cradle labels, are preferred for their eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
  • Local availability
    Locally sourced materials are easier to access, reduce transportation emissions, and support regional economies.
  • Renewable and recycled content
    Renewable or recycled materials, like bamboo or reclaimed wood, are favoured to reduce reliance on virgin resources. But be careful — not all recycled materials are equally safe. We will focus on this in the next module.
  • Climate impact
    Low-carbon materials — those with minimal greenhouse gas emissions during production and disposal — are selected to reduce the overall environmental footprint of renovation.
Of course, individual examples of materials may meet these criteria. Additionally, the priority of each criterion will vary depending on personal values and circumstances. When analysing renovation materials, choose those that are most relevant and important to you to make an informed decision.
  • In order to better understand how to evaluate materials based on criteria, let's consider an example.

    I'm currently thinking about replacing the flooring in my living room and I'm choosing among 3 types of wood flooring.
    Let's evaluate each option according to the criteria.
  • 12mm Laminate Flooring — Harvest Oak
    Description: This premium 12mm laminate flooring features a realistic harvest oak finish with a textured surface that mimics natural wood. Ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways, offering timeless elegance and practicality.
    Key Features: Durable, scratch-resistant, and suitable for heavy domestic use. Easy to install with a click system. Low VOC emissions ensure better indoor air quality.
  • 8 mm Laminate Flooring — Weathered Oak
    Description: The laminate offers a modern, light wood effect with natural grain detailing for a contemporary aesthetic. Versatile and stylish, suitable for homes seeking a balance of design and functionality in wet or dry areas.
    Key Features: A4 rating and a water-resistant surface, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. Quick and easy installation with a click-lock system. FSC certification ensures sustainable sourcing of materials.
  • Super 12mm Laminate Flooring — Natural Oak
    Description: This 12mm natural oak laminate flooring showcases a realistic wood grain pattern and natural tones for a classic look.
    Key Features: Heavy-duty AC5 rating for maximum durability, water-resistant, and scratch-proof with a simple click system for quick installation. Designed for high-traffic areas, including hallways, living rooms, and even commercial spaces, combining robust performance with timeless style. Low VOC emissions for better indoor air quality. FSC certification ensures sustainable sourcing of materials.
  • For convenience, let's compare each of the flooring materials using a table.

    By the way, at the end of the lesson you will find an editable template with criteria that you can use in the future when selecting materials for repairs, adding or removing criteria as needed 😊
Features
12mm Laminate Flooring — Harvest Oak
8 mm Laminate Flooring — Weathered Oak
Super 12mm Laminate Flooring — Natural Oak
Price
$$ + 0,5$
$$
$$$
Aesthetics and functionality
The appearance and functionality of the product meet the requirements.
The appearance and functionality of the product meet the requirements
The appearance and functionality of the product meet the requirements.
Non-toxicity
Low-VOCs emissions indicated
No additional data is provided
Low-VOCs emissions indicated
Durability and repairability
12 mm laminate is more durable and resistant to impact and wear.
Lock system ensures easier reparability.
8 mm laminate is less resistant.
Lock system ensures easier reparability.
12 mm laminate is more durable and resistant to impact and wear.
Lock system ensures easier reparability.
Renewable and recycled content
Not specified
Not specified
Not specified
Energy efficiency
Not specified
Not specified
Not specified
Reusability and circularity
Lock system ensures easier reusability
Lock system ensures easier reusability
Lock system ensures easier reusability
Sustainable production
No data provided, no certification provided
FSC certified
FSC certified
Local availability
Not specified
Not specified
Not specified
Climate impact
Absence of sustainable certification and higher material use increase climate impact
The use of FSC-certified wood and lower material consumption help reduce the carbon footprint
Medium impact; FSC certification and durability help, but the thickness increases carbon footprint
  • Well, now I can confidently say a few things:

    • There are many criteria for choosing building materials, and they can differ from person to person. For some, price is the most important; for others, durability. Now you have different perspectives through which you can evaluate material choices, set priorities, and, based on them, select what is most important to you at the moment.
    • Now you know how to analyse the criteria when choosing renovation materials.
    • Next, we can take a closer look at guides for choosing the main types of materials used in renovation.
Now we present you with material selection guidelines that will provide the information you need to identify the most sustainable options and help you avoid ones with potential performance limitations or durability concerns.

How to use the guide?

The guide is organised as a catalog, where different types of materials are presented.
Each material type has its own dedicated section, which includes the following information:
  • About material: here you can get brief or more detailed information about a material type.
  • Priority of choice: this section highlights the best options or good alternatives within this material category, as well as materials that should be avoided.
  • Tips for healthier choice: practical recommendations to make selecting this particular material easier and safer.
  • Certifications to look for: here you will find information about certifications that ensure products meet environmental and sustainable standards.
Choose the material you need and start your research 🔍
  • Totally agree with you!
    I'm so glad you were with me side by side throughout this lesson. As a small token of appreciation, I've prepared a little gift for you 🤗

    Here is a list of environmental and sustainability certifications for building materials to ensure that a product is responsibly sourced, free of hazardous chemicals, healthy, safe, and sustainable.
    If you’re aiming to build or renovate more sustainably, considering the environmental impact of materials you use is a great place to start. This list has helped me a lot in my early steps into sustainable renovation 😊

List of environmental and sustainability certifications of building materials

(for a full list of certifiable products refer to the official website)

  • FSC certification ensures that products originate responsibly managed forests, which provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.
    • solid and composite wood and panel products, rough wood
    • sawn wood
    • veneers
    • plywood
    • MDF
    • laminated timber
    • flooring
    • furniture doors
    • window frames
    • cabinetry
    • countertops (with wood core)
  • PEFC is an international, non-profit, non-governmental organistion that promotes sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification.
    • engineered wood products (plywood, MDF, OSB, and particleboard)
    • wood-based panels
    • flooring
    • kitchen cabinetry and countertops
    • furniture
  • The GREENGUARD Certification Program identifies low-emitting materials, finishes, and products for indoor environments.
    • drywall
    • flooring
    • insulation
    • paints
    • coatings
    • adhesives and sealants
    • furniture
  • Cradle to Cradle Certified® assesses products for environmental and social performance across five categories: material health, material reutilization, renewable energy use, water stewardship, and social fairness. Products are certified at Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum levels based on performance in each category.
    • drywall and gypsum panels
    • flooring
    • paints
    • coatings and finishes
    • sealants and adhesives
    • furniture
    • carpets
  • The EU Ecolabel is a certification awarded to products and services meeting high environmental standards throughout their life cycle.
    • hard floor coverings (tiles)
    • wooden floor coverings
    • wood-based panels (MDF, plywood)
    • paints
    • sealants and adhesives
    • stains and finishes
    • furniture
    • upholstered furniture
    • carpets
  • The Blue Angel is a German ecolabel that sets high environmental standards for products and services, focusing on environmental friendliness.
    • wood-based materials (plywood, MDF, OSB, particleboard)
    • flooring
    • paints
    • stains and finishes
    • sealants and adhesives
    • furniture
    • carpets
  • The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is the official ecolabel of the Nordic countries, certifying products and services that meet stringent environmental and climate criteria throughout its entire life cycle, including raw material extraction, production, use, and disposal.
    • furniture
    • carpets
    • sealants and adhesives
    • stains and finishes
    • doors
    • wood panels
  • The M1 emission label is a Finnish classification system for building products regarding their emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor air.
    • flooring
    • paints
    • varnishes
    • adhesives and sealants
    • furniture
    • carpets
    • doors
    • windows
  • GOTS is the leading worldwide standard for organic fibers, ensuring ecological and social criteria are met throughout the textile supply chain.
    • carpets and rugs
    • home textiles
    • upholstered furniture (upholstery)
    • mattresses
  • OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 is a globally standardized, independent testing and certification system for textile raw materials, intermediate, and end products at all processing stages.
    • carpets and rugs
    • home textiles (curtains)
    • upholstered furniture (upholstery)
  • The GUT label is awarded by the Gemeinschaft Umweltfreundlicher Teppichboden e.V. (GUT), stands for environmentally friendly carpets that are harmless to health and meet certain criteria.
    • carpets
    • textile floor coverings
  • Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort® Gold certification combines the most relevant emission specifications and requirements in Europe into one certification, ensuring low product emissions.
    • flooring
    • paints
    • adhesives and sealants
    • stains and coatings
    • furniture
  • The EMICODE® classification system allows consumers and craftsmen to compare and evaluate the emission characteristics of flooring installation and construction products.
    • adhesives and sealants
    • stains and coatings
    • insulation materials
  • Well, it's time to say goodbye, because this lesson is coming to an end. Now, both you and I know:

    • What misconceptions exist about sustainable materials and what is actually true.
    • What criteria should be relied on when choosing materials for repairs.
    • And, certainly, how invaluable a guide to selecting sustainable materials can be — it is a lifesaver when you need to purchase materials for repairs.
By the way, if you’d like, you can test your new-acquired knowledge from this lesson with a short quiz.
I can tell you from my experience, it really helps to remember information better! Just give it a try 😊
Quiz
Final Quiz
Take the quiz
Select the correct statements about sustainable materials
You were close. Let’s repeat some facts about sustainable materials for renovation:
  • Sustainable materials are not always more expensive; they often save money in the long run.
  • Not all recycled materials are created equal.
  • Many eco-friendly products now provide a range of attractive choices to suit any design.
  • Natural materials are not always healthier. Ensure that natural materials are non-toxic and sustainably sourced by verifying certifications.
Brilliant choice! You will not be misled about sustainable materials for renovation.
You were close. Let’s repeat some facts about sustainable materials for renovation:
  • Sustainable materials are not always more expensive; they often save money in the long run.
  • Not all recycled materials are created equal.
  • Many eco-friendly products now provide a range of attractive choices to suit any design.
  • Natural materials are not always healthier. Ensure that natural materials are non-toxic and sustainably sourced by verifying certifications.
Brilliant choice! You will not be misled about sustainable materials for renovation.
Next
Check
Show results
Is it true that locally sourced always means better in the sphere of sustainable renovation?
Let’s correct your answer a bit. Yeah, local sourcing can reduce transportation emissions, but the sustainability of materials also depends on how they’re produced. Therefore, locally sourced not always = better.
Nice answer!
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Do you agree that price is the most important criterion in the process of selecting sustainable materials?
Let’s repeat it once again. There are different criteria for renovation materials selection: from price and functionality to durability and climate impact. But their priority and importance will vary for different people.
Let’s repeat it once again. There are different criteria for renovation materials selection: from price and functionality to durability and climate impact. But their priority and importance will vary for different people.
You are right. There are different criteria for renovation materials selection: from price and functionality to durability and climate impact. But their priority and importance will vary for different people.
Next
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When choosing sustainable materials for renovation, is it worth paying attention to the presence of certification?
Not really. Environmental and sustainability certifications of building materials ensure that the product is responsibly sourced, is devoid of hazardous chemicals, healthy, safe, and sustainable. But it’s important to avoid greenwashing labels and look for reputable third-party certifications to verify a product’s sustainability credentials.
Not really. Environmental and sustainability certifications of building materials ensure that the product is responsibly sourced, is devoid of hazardous chemicals, healthy, safe, and sustainable. But it’s important to avoid greenwashing labels and look for reputable third-party certifications to verify a product’s sustainability credentials.
Nothing to add! Great answer
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Thank you for taking care of the environment even during renovations.
Restart
Thank you for taking care of the environment even during renovations.
Restart
Thank you for taking care of the environment even during renovations.
Restart
You are an eco-pro!
Restart
That’s all for now.
See you in the next lesson, where you will learn what to do after renovation to achieve sustainable living (this is a vital aspect that is important not to forget about when making renovation).
See you there!👋
Module 4

useful materials:

Material Comparison Sample
List Of Environmental And Sustainability Certifications Of Building Materials
Material selection guidelines