In today’s building and construction industry, “green” has evolved from a mere buzzword into a solid reality. Architects, builders, and homeowners alike recognize the need to increase our environmental consciousness and do what we can to be kinder and gentler to the earth, plus conserve our natural resources. Natural stone is an inherently earth-friendly material, which recently became even more so when the Natural Stone Council unveiled more stringent sustainability standards for the industry.
What are some of the earth-friendly attributes offered by natural stone? Well, first of all it offers a long life cycle. Natural stone stands up to weathering better than just about any other building material, natural or manmade. The stone columns of the Parthenon, which have stood since 447 BC, are one example; the Egyptian pyramids are another. Natural stone is so durable, in fact, that in most cases it will last the lifetime of any particular building.