If you are fortunate enough, you have by now tackled the indoor environment of your home and created an eco-friendly home. Perhaps, you are gearing up to take your endeavors outdoors. Of course, one of the best ways to achieve that goal is to head outdoors to the patio.

Creating a green patio does not have to be complicated at all. You have many choices. If you have already created a green home indoors and are heading outside, pat yourself on the back for being possible one of the first in your neighborhood to have an entirely green building that you can call your home.

Concrete, cement, and asphalt are amongst the most common materials utilized in creating outdoor patios. However, there are some concerns with these choices. Increased run-off and retaining of heat, as well as flooding make these a poor choice for the environment.

Brick and Stone

Of course, your safest bet is to utilize the old standbys of brick and stone for your green patio design. Brick and stone are versatile, provide durability, and thankfully can be found locally in most areas. This saves you money on transportation fees and also saves the environment as it is not a costly material to transport. This saves energy in the form of fuel necessary to transport brick and stone.

Recycled Glass

Another great option is recycled glass that you can turn into beautiful pavers. These, fortunately, come in an array of colors to suit just about anyone’s patio needs. You will be happily surprised when you see that your family and friends are impressed with your new patio; however, you will be more impressed with yourself when you get to say that it is made from recycled glass.

Recycled Granite

Leftover granite can be converted from items such as granite countertops that are left over. Sometimes a crack will occur and then these countertops are converted into pavers. The good news just gets better with recycled granite because of the fact that it comes in different colors and varieties. So, choosing your recycled granite pavers is a breeze.

Recycled Concrete

Recycled concrete is constructed of concrete which has intentionally been salvaged to make pavers. Again, utilizing recycled concrete is a wonderful way to create a truly green patio and to save money, energy, and the environment all in one. Perhaps you know of a neighbor who is remodeling an old concrete patio. You may be able to utilize their old patio and reconstruct it differently for your particular project.

Recycled Plastic

Rubber tires and recycled milk containers are two more interesting but recyclable materials that homeowners can use to create a brand new patio. Think about all the waste you are keeping out of the landfills by utilizing recycled plastic and recycled rubber tires for your patio.

Every time you step foot on your patio you will not only be pleased with the look but also thrilled at the fact that you are doing your part to preserve our precious environment.