Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance. However, like all building materials, quartz has an impact on the environment. Here is an in-depth look at the eco-friendliness of quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles combined with plastic resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%, while resins make up the remaining 6-10%.
The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a hard, non-porous surface. Pigments are added to achieve different colors and patterns.
Compared to natural stone like granite or marble, quartz offers consistent coloring and patterning since it is engineered. It is also less prone to stains, scratches, and cracks.
How is Quartz Made?
Quartz slabs are made in factories through a multi-step manufacturing process:
- Quarrying – Quartz crystals are mined and crushed into a fine powder. Most quartz is sourced responsibly from abundant deposits around the world.
- Mixing – The quartz powder is combined with pigments and resins. Polyester, epoxy, and acrylic resins are commonly used.
- Pressing – The mixture is pressed into molds under heat and high pressure to form slabs.
- Finishing – The pressed slabs are polished, cut, and finished into countertops. Advanced machines automate much of this process.
- Installation – The custom-cut countertops are installed by professionals in homes and businesses.
Is Quartz Eco-Friendly?
Overall, quartz is considered one of the more eco-friendly countertop materials for the following reasons:
Made from Abundant Natural Materials
- Quartz surfaces contain over 90% crushed quartz, an extremely abundant mineral found across the world. Responsible quartz mining practices help support sustainability.
- Quartz does not require intensive quarrying and processing like natural stone.
Low Energy Production
- The manufacturing process uses relatively low amounts of energy compared to other engineered surfaces like granite or concrete.
- Heat and pressure are used in production, but advanced technology has made quartz fabrication quite energy efficient.
Contains Recycled Content
- Many quartz brands use recycled glass, mirrors, porcelain, and natural stone remnants in their products.
- Using recycled materials reduces the environmental impact of processing new raw materials. Up to 20-30% recycled content is common.
- Blended recycled glass gives quartz surfaces their sparkly, multi-colored appearance while diverting waste from landfills.
Does Not Require Quarrying Natural Stone
- Since it is engineered, quartz does not require extracting and shaping natural stone. This helps preserve stone resources and landscapes.
- Less quarrying and stone shaping also means less water waste, air pollution, and habitat destruction.
Low Maintenance and Durable
- Quartz’s non-porous surface repels stains, scrapes, and cracks, so it does not need frequent replacement or maintenance with hazardous chemicals.
- The long 25-year lifespan and low maintenance needs of quartz make it a wise investment to reduce your environmental footprint.
Safe for Home Use
- Quartz does not emit much VOC off-gassing once installed in homes, making it safer for indoor air quality.
- Certified quartz brands meet health and safety standards for in-home use.
How is Quartz Less Eco-Friendly?
Despite the above benefits, quartz also has some downsides in terms of sustainability:
- Resins – Polyester and epoxy resins are derived from petroleum. These may release VOCs during manufacturing. However, off-gassing is minimal once installed.
- Energy intensive manufacturing – While improving, quartz fabrication does use electricity and heat. Transportation of slabs worldwide also burns fossil fuels. Local sourcing helps reduce the carbon footprint.
- Non-biodegradable – Unlike natural materials, quartz slabs are non-biodegradable and end up in landfills after their long lifespan.
- Limited recyclability – It is currently not economically viable to recycle quartz. However, research is underway to improve quartz recyclability.
- Health hazards – Cutting quartz produces hazardous silica dust. Proper precautions are needed to protect worker health.
How Does Quartz Compare to Other Countertops?
Compared to alternatives, quartz generally ranks as one of the more eco-friendly countertops:
- More eco-friendly than granite, marble, or concrete – Extracting and cutting natural stone is resource intensive. Concrete also has a high carbon footprint.
- Comparable to recycled glass, paper composite, or bamboo – These eco-countertops are on par with the sustainability of a recycled quartz surface.
- Less eco-friendly than reclaimed wood, tiled, or recycled plastic – These alternatives contain more recycled content than the average quartz surface.
Overall, quartz is a durable, quality choice that has some eco-advantages over natural stone. But consumers should look for recycled quartz options to reduce the carbon footprint.
How to Choose an Eco-Friendly Quartz Brand
If selecting a quartz countertop, look for these signs of an eco-conscious brand:
- Contains recycled materials (glass, porcelain, mirrors etc.)
- Sources recycled quartz tailings and waste from other industries
- Uses bio-based resins with less VOCs
- Manufactured regionally to reduce transport miles
- Follows best practices for worker safety and low emissions
- Offers eco-friendly packaging and delivery
- Provides recycling or reuse options for scrap material
Caesarstone, Cambria, and Icestone are examples of greener quartz brands to consider. Look for their eco-lines that contain recycled content.
Is Quartz Worth It for Eco-Conscious Homes?
For green homes and kitchens, quartz offers a durable, quality countertop that is more eco-friendly than natural stone alternatives. Opting for recycled quartz further reduces the carbon footprint.
While no material is 100% sustainable, quartz has a lighter impact than many other countertops when factoring in the full lifecycle. The combination of recycled content, energy efficiency, durability, and safety makes quartz a decent eco-choice for countertops with minimal maintenance needs. Just be sure to install, cut, and dispose of it properly.
Conclusion
With responsible sourcing and manufacturing, quartz proves to be a relatively green option compared to other countertop materials. While no material is perfect, recycled quartz containing up to 30% recycled content demonstrates leadership in sustainability.
Specifying recycled quartz shows consumers care about reducing environmental impacts. Combined with quartz’s durability and practical benefits, eco-quartz offers quality performance for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eco-Friendly Quartz Countertops
Is quartz more eco-friendly than granite?
Yes, quartz is considered more eco-friendly than granite. Quartz is engineered using abundant crushed quartz and recycled materials, reducing the need for intensive stone quarrying. Granite mining and fabrication generates more carbon emissions.
Should I choose recycled quartz?
Recycled quartz containing glass, porcelain, or stone scraps is an eco-friendly choice. It keeps waste out of landfills. Look for recycled content between 20-30%.
What’s the greenest quartz brand?
Some greener quartz brands include Caesarstone, Cambria, Icestone, Bretonstone, and Recycling Quartz. Check their eco-lines specifically. Local quartz brands that use recycled materials and efficient practices are also an option.
Does quartz off-gas VOCs?
Some VOCs are released from the resins during manufacturing. However, off-gassing is minimal once quartz is installed. Look for brands using greener bio-based resins.
Can you recycle old quartz countertops?
It is not yet economically viable to recycle old quartz. But some brands may take back old slabs for reuse. More recycling options are being researched. Reusing scraps during fabrication also cuts back on waste.
Is quartz safer than granite?
Quartz generally emits less radon gas than natural granite. Quartz also does not require sealants with VOCs. However, cutting quartz produces silica dust. Proper precautions make quartz a safe option.