RECYCLED GLASS This countertop is made of recycled glass mixed into a cement, concrete or resin base, and the color variation can be completely controlled to coordinate with any kitchen decor. By recycling the glass, the glass is diverted from the waste stream, and the cement is some of the countertops is mixed with fly ash, a waste product of coal-burning therefore reducing greenhouse gas from manufacturing the cement. Cost and contact info: It’s pricey. EnviroGlas Products, Plano, TX (from $50 per sq. ft.; 888/523-7894); Syndecrete, Santa Monica (from $80 per sq. ft.; 310/829-9704); Vetrazzo, Richmond, CA (pictured; from $55 per sq. ft.; 510/234-5550).
END-GRAIN BAMBOO Bamboo countertops are a great use of a renewable resource since it is a rapidly growing grass, but one draw back to these is that they will most likely get nicks and marks more easily than a hardwood surface.
Cost and contact info: Midrange cost compared with natural or manufactured stone products. Smith & Fong, South San Francisco, CA (pictured; $23 per sq. ft.; 866/835-9859); Teragren, Bainbridge Island, WA (from $22 per sq. ft.; 800/929-6333).
SUSTAINABLE WOODButcher-block counters, some from reclaimed or recycled lumber, others from handsome but lesser-known tree species that have been sustainably harvested. Butcher blocks can be made from slender lengths or end-grain blocks. Using reclaimed wood reduces need for harvesting new trees. Recycled old-growth lumber often has tighter grain and better quality. Underutilized species (such as Pacific madrone) expand the range of grain and color choices and offer high-quality lumber from managed forests.
Cost and contact info: Medium to high cost compared to traditional butcher blocks. Add cost of shipping. Endura Wood Products, Portland (pictured; from $50 per sq. ft.; 866/263-3939); Windfall Lumber, Olympia, WA (from $50 per sq. ft.; 360/352-2250).
RECYCLED PAPERThis countertop uses postconsumer recycled paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and nonpetroleum, formaldehyde-free resins, some made from cashew nut shell liquid. It's available in thicknesses ranging from ¼ inch to 2 inches, and is heat and stain resistant.
Cost and contact info: Low- to midrange cost and easy-to-work-with characteristics make it ideal for the budget-conscious home craftsman. PaperStone, Hoquiam, WA (pictured; from $30 per sq. ft.; 360/538-9815).
