If you’re still under the impression that sustainability is a “trend” — it’s not.
In fact, sustainability is actually mandated in Europe. The European Union created the “European Green New Deal,” with the goal of becoming the world’s first climate-neutral bloc by 2050.
So it’s no surprise that Nourison Home is taking sustainability seriously. Based in Saddlebrook, NJ, Nourison is one of the world’s largest importers and manufacturers of fine handmade oriental rugs, with offices in Zurich, Germany, China and India, among others.
Nourison's Sustainable Collections
Many of Nourison’s collections are crafted from natural fibers such as wool and jute. But wool is the best fiber for rugs because of its renewable and durable qualities, according to Giovanni Marra, VP of Marketing and Creative at Nourison Home.
“Natural fiber rugs are long-lasting, biodegradable and have a decreased impact on the environment,” Marra says. “These fibers are sustainable and produce high-quality rugs and carpets that are better for our customers and the environment.”
If not crafted from natural fibers, Marra recommends rugs made from recycled fibers, as the process of making them reduces plastic in landfills.
“We have two collections of recycled fiber rugs,” he says. “These are made from recycling plastics and making it into yarns. Our recycled rugs are low-shedding, soft, cozy and better for the environment than standard synthetic fiber rugs.”
And just because a rug is high on recycled fibers doesn’t mean it’s low on style. Sustainability meets sophistication with Nourison’s Sustainable Trends Collection.
“These modern rugs are woven with recycled polyester yarns that are not only easy to clean but are incredibly soft to the touch,” according to the company’s website. Further, clients can “choose from a range of abstract designs with subtly raised textural accents, available in cozy neutrals that easily complement furniture without overpowering it.”
In addition, Nourison’s Graceful Area Rug Collection is handmade of 100% wool yarns that are naturally hypoallergenic, durable and softly textured. Inspired by landscapes, these abstract rugs “blend a high-low construction with hand-carved finishing to create a sense of depth that not only catches the eye but feels amazing underfoot,” according to Nourison.
While rugs made from recycled materials are not as long-lasting as wool rugs, they’re still highly durable and great for high-traffic areas. “Our recycled rugs are made from high-quality recycled yarns that are just as durable as other polypropylene rugs,” Marra says.
What about the price? Nourison’s wool rugs range from $299 to $2,999 and up, based on the size and the construction (machine-made versus handmade, etc.). And the recycled fiber rugs start at $199.
“Providing natural fiber rugs at various price points gives our customers a natural option that fits their budgets,” Marra says. “If they can’t afford a natural fiber rug, we have several value-priced recycled collections that they can opt for.”
But arguably the main reason to select rugs made from natural fibers or recycled materials is the most purposeful — being kind to Mother Earth.
“Cheap, synthetic rugs often wind up in landfills a few months after they’re purchased,” Marra says. “We believe that it is our responsibility to craft the best products to meet the needs of our customers while also being conscious of our impact on the environment.”
