Homeowners have a number of flooring options from which to choose. Options include ceramic tile, vinyl, linoleum, bamboo, hardwood, carpet made of natural or a variety of synthetic fibers, and more. The differences in environmental impacts between these various options are large. For those interested in minimizing the environmental impacts associated with their choice of flooring material, finding reliable information about the impacts and trade-offs can be daunting.

This report examines available life cycle assessment data for a number of flooring products. Research findings and assessment data from around the world are reported and summarized.