In today’s quest to fight climate change and reverse global warming, many organizations, including many companies and even entire countries, are taking steps to offset the amount of greenhouse gases they emit into the atmosphere by incentivizing an equivalent amount of greenhouse gas removal.

In other words, carbon neutrality can be achieved when the same amount of carbon dioxide that’s released into the atmosphere is absorbed by natural means, like trees and plants, or carbon capture technologies, resulting in a zero-carbon footprint. Since it’s difficult to absorb current emission levels, a key component of these plans is a reduction in greenhouse gas production.

The ultimate goal of achieving carbon neutrality is to significantly reduce the net presence of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which are the primary drivers of climate change.

At Metroflor, we are committed to protecting our planet and future generations by seeking innovative solutions to lower and neutralize the carbon footprint of our flooring products.

What Is Carbon Dioxide and How Is It Produced?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas composed of one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. It is a naturally occurring component of Earth’s atmosphere, but its levels have been increasing significantly due to a wide range of human activities.

Humans and animals all breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide as a waste product. As organic matter such as plants, animals and microorganisms decompose, they release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The world’s oceans absorb and release carbon dioxide as part of the natural carbon cycle.

These natural sources of carbon dioxide aren’t the cause of increased CO2 levels. Human-induced production of carbon dioxide at past and current levels can’t be adequately absorbed via existing natural means of capture.

Examples of human-induced sources of carbon dioxide include:

• Burning Fossil Fuels: The primary human activity contributing to increased CO2 levels is the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas for electricity generation, transportation, and industrial processes.
• Deforestation: The removal of trees and forests reduces the planet’s capacity to absorb CO2 through photosynthesis, contributing to higher atmospheric CO2 levels.
• Industrial Processes: Certain industrial activities, such as cement production and chemical manufacturing, release carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
• Agriculture: Agricultural practices like rice cultivation and the use of synthetic fertilizers can release CO2 and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Estimates also suggest livestock is responsible for a significant percentage of current greenhouse gas emissions.

How Can Carbon Neutrality Be Achieved?

Achieving carbon neutrality requires a multi-faceted approach. The good news is there are many ways in which governments, companies and individuals can adopt practices that help mitigate climate change and reduce the harmful impacts of carbon dioxide on the environment.

It’s possible you’ve already implemented some of these changes in your own household or life. By continuing to do so, you contribute to the collective effort to reach carbon neutrality.

• Shifting from traditional gas-powered cars to electric vehicles
• Using clean energy solutions like solar panels and wind turbines
• Using alternative fuels like biodiesel and green hydrogen
• Recycling plastics, glass, paper, metal and other materials
• Developing and implementing technologies to capture and store carbon emissions from industrial processes and power plants
• Supporting reforestation efforts and tree-planting initiatives to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
• Preventing deforestation and degradation of existing forests, which act as carbon sinks
• Investing in efficient and sustainable public transportation systems
• Purchasing from businesses that are committed to reducing emissions through sustainable practices, supply chain improvements and carbon offsetting

Metroflor’s Commitment to Carbon Neutrality

At Metroflor, we understand the impact the manufacturing of flooring can have on the environment. From the extraction of raw materials to the production process and transportation, the flooring industry has a significant carbon footprint. That's why we’ve made a firm commitment to carbon neutrality.

One of the ways in which we reduce our carbon footprint as a company is by partnering with organizations that protect forests. Forests are necessary for absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. By supporting forest conservation initiatives and responsible forestry practices, we not only contribute to the preservation of endangered ecosystems but also help maintain a natural carbon sink.

Additionally, our floors are ASSURE CERTIFIED™, meaning they’ve passed rigorous tests for environmental sustainability and indoor air quality. We prioritize the use of low-emission materials and adhesives in our products to ensure that they have minimal impact on indoor air quality, promoting healthier living spaces for our customers.

Browse Our Collection of Luxury Vinyl Floors

Are you looking for a high-quality and durable floor manufactured by an environmentally conscious company?

Metroflor offers a diverse array of luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) floors, including our first carbon neutral LVT flooring product – Déjà New – that will match your unique needs and the aesthetic of your home.

Browse our website to find your next floor.