
Healthy Materials Series: Cork
In the first of our new series, WLLW takes a comprehensive look at the health and environmental impacts of cork.
WORDS Elissa Rose
In the first of our new series, WLLW takes a comprehensive look at the health and environmental impacts of cork.
WORDS Elissa Rose
In our Healthy Materials Series, WLLW delves into the properties of the materials we use in our homes to highlight the importance of incorporating those which are healthy, sustainable and contribute to our wellbeing. These materials help improve indoor air quality by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants. Additionally, sustainable materials generally have a lower environmental impact, using fewer resources and generating less waste. Choosing healthy and sustainable materials promotes a better living environment, supports ecological balance and provides long-term benefits for both the homeowner and the planet.
---
In the first installment of this series we will examine the properties of cork. In use since antiquity, cork is a versatile and environmentally friendly material with a range of potential applications in the home. Originating from the bark of cork oak trees, primarily found in the Mediterranean region, cork is harvested through a process that does not harm the tree, allowing it to regenerate and be harvested repeatedly over its lifespan. Cork is used in a myriad of ways in the home, from flooring and wall tiles to acoustic insulation and decorative accessories. So why is it a healthy, sustainable material?
Photo courtesy of ah_fotobox/Adobe
Cork is naturally resistant to mold, mildew and pests, which helps reduce allergens in the home. It does not absorb dust, so is ideal for use by people who suffer from allergies or asthma. Cork also emits low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can cause health complaints such as respiratory irritation, eye and skin irritation, headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Using cork, therefore, can improve indoor air quality compared to some synthetic materials.
Cork oak forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, and the cork products themselves continue to store carbon throughout their life cycle. These forests support a rich biodiversity, providing habitats for various species, and sustainable management of cork harvesting helps protect these ecosystems. Additionally, cork is recyclable and biodegradable, meaning that at the end of its useful life, it can be recycled or will decompose naturally without releasing harmful substances.
Adhesives for cork installations range from solvent-based types, which can release significant VOCs and potentially cause respiratory irritation and other health issues, to water-based and natural adhesives that are lower in VOCs and safer for indoor environments. Common finishes of cork products include polyurethane, which provides durability and water resistance but can emit VOCs during application and curing. The primary health concerns with these materials stem from VOC emissions, which can cause short-term symptoms like irritation and headaches, and long-term exposure risks including respiratory issues and increased cancer risk.
Terms like ‘composite’ or ‘engineered’ may suggest the presence of additional materials, such as resins or synthetic fillers, which can increase VOC emissions. ‘Vinyl-coated’ cork products, while offering durability and water resistance, often contain vinyl, a synthetic material that can emit VOCs and affect indoor air quality.
Choose FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified cork which guarantees that the product has been made from sustainably managed forests. Water-based sealants, as opposed to solvent-based ones, typically have lower VOC levels and are safer for indoor air quality. Low-VOC polyurethane sealants are available and are a healthier choice for indoor use. Look for certifications such as Greenguard or EcoLogo when selecting sealant products.
Clayton & Little chose cork flooring for this Austin home. Photo courtesy of Clayton & Little by Nick Simonite
Architecture Studio Polysmiths clads interiors with cork in a London home. Photo courtesy of Lorenzo Zandri
Accanta side table collection design by Maddalena Casadei in collaboration with Falegnameria Pisu. Photo courtesy of Pretziada by Claudia Ferri
Architecture studio Gurea Arquitectura Cooperativa clads a home in Spain with cork blocks. Photo courtesy of Gurea Arquitectura Cooperativa
Feature Image: Deyan Georgiev/Adobe
Photography: ah_fotobox/Adobe, Clayton & Little by Nick Simonite,Lorenzo Zandri, Pretziada by Claudia Ferril, Gurea Arquitectura Cooperativa
Further Info
Emission Rates of Bio-based Building Materials Study Cork: A Strategic Material The Sustainability of Cork Cork for Sustainable Product DesignThe materials and products we live with can quietly shape the air around us. Make three small changes that can have a lasting impact on your wellbeing.
Discover WLLW’s strategies to design an outdoor space that promotes both our own health and that of the environment.
Creating a healthier home can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This series offers straightforward advice on simple strategies that make a big difference.