As sustainability becomes a priority for homeowners and designers, selecting building materials that align with environmental values is more important than ever. Natural stone, long celebrated for its beauty and durability, can also be part of a sustainable design strategy when sourced and used responsibly. In this article we’ll explore eco-friendly options for incorporating stone into your home and how Onyx & Beyond can help you create spaces that are both timeless and earth-conscious.
Why Choose Sustainable Natural Stone?
Choosing natural stone sourced with sustainability in mind reduces the environmental footprint of your renovation or construction project. Stone requires minimal processing compared to synthetic materials and offers exceptional longevity. High-quality stone surfaces can last for decades or even centuries, reducing the need for replacements and associated waste. When you consider the energy and resources consumed over a building’s lifetime, investing in durable materials like stone is a smart and eco-friendly decision.
Reclaimed and Recycled Stone
One of the most environmentally friendly ways to use stone is to reclaim it from deconstructed buildings or infrastructure. Reclaimed marble, granite and limestone carry a unique patina and history that new materials cannot replicate. By giving these stones a second life, you keep them out of landfills and reduce demand for newly quarried material. Recycled stone composites such as terrazzo or cement-based products incorporate chips and fragments from quarries and fabrication facilities. These surfaces are highly durable and can be customised in a wide range of colours and patterns.
Engineered Quartz and Other Composite Stones
Engineered quartz countertops and slabs combine natural quartz with resins and pigments to create a non-porous, low-maintenance surface. Many manufacturers incorporate recycled glass or mirror into the mix, making these products a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based solid surfaces. Because engineered quartz is produced under controlled conditions, it offers consistent colouring and patterning while still providing the hardness and heat resistance of natural stone.
Locally Sourced Stone
Transportation can account for a significant portion of a material’s carbon footprint. Choosing stone from local or regional quarries reduces the emissions associated with long-distance shipping and supports businesses in your community. At Onyx & Beyond we work closely with suppliers across Canada to source beautiful stone options that minimise transport distances. Our team can help you explore locally quarried marble, granite, quartzite and other materials that suit your project’s aesthetic and sustainability goals.
Benefits of Sustainable Stone Surfaces
Sustainable stone choices don’t just benefit the planet – they also provide long-term value for homeowners. Natural stone’s durability means your countertops, flooring or feature walls will maintain their beauty for years, and many surfaces can be refinished rather than replaced. Stone also has natural thermal mass, which can help regulate indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency. And when a stone surface eventually reaches the end of its life, it can often be repurposed or recycled, further reducing waste.
Tips for Selecting and Maintaining Eco-Friendly Stone
When shopping for sustainable stone, ask suppliers about their quarrying practices and any environmental certifications they hold. Look for materials that have been responsibly extracted and processed using minimal chemicals. Opting for honed or natural finishes rather than heavily polished surfaces can reduce the need for chemical treatments and make maintenance easier. Once installed, keep your stone looking its best by using pH-neutral cleaners and resealing surfaces as recommended. If you’d like personalised advice on choosing and caring for sustainable stone, feel free to reach out to our team via
the Contact page.
By selecting eco-friendly natural stone and working with knowledgeable professionals, you can create a beautiful home that reflects your commitment to sustainability. Onyx & Beyond is proud to offer a curated selection of environmentally conscious stone options, and we’re here to guide you through every step of your project.
Leave a Reply