Surface Finishes Part 6 – Wallpaper alternatives

If grasscloth wall coverings don′t suit the style you want for the walls, there are other natural and more environmentally stable wallpaper types on the market.  Slim pickings of manufacturers in Ireland, most eco wallpaper ranges can be found in the UK.  Other wallpaper choices are: sustainable wood pulp, recycled paper, vinyl or PVC free, chlorine free, silk screened cotton, glass fibre, barkskin, organic, handmade and wallpaper printed with vegetable, soy or natural dyes. 

These can be expensive, especially ranges that are hand-made or hand-printed.  Some conventional wallpaper manufacturers have environmental initiatives during the manufacturing process which focus on resources used, energy use, waste, recycling, packaging and distribution.  The trick is to investigate before you buy, avoid impulse buying and really know what you are getting before you go to the DIY store.  Go for local manufacturers if possible, and watch out for hidden carbon emissions from overseas suppliers of ′eco products′.

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