When a business tells you it has "gone green" simply because it's the right thing to do, you have a right to be skeptical. However, when a business tells you it's the right thing to do AND it makes good business sense, you can be sure it is a serious commitment.

At Hart Stoneworks, our environmental commitment affects the materials we use, and the ways we process them. First, the materials: our soapstone and slate products perform exactly as you would expect them to do. They are heat resistant, non-staining and help protect against harmful bacteria. The difference is that they do these things naturally, without harsh chemical sealers and polishes. In other words, they are naturally food-safe. Considering the energy and resources required to produce and ship these polymers and chemicals, as well as the regulations and cost of safely disposing of the toxic leftovers, this is a step that Hart Stoneworks gladly avoids.

Secondly, the processing: it begins underground, in the soapstone and slate mines. As much as is possible, the mines we associate with are environmentally sensitive. When the resources are depleted, the mines are backfilled and stabilized, and trees are planted.

After that, fabrication. As you will read on our Facilities page, our processes are extremely efficient and precise. Hart Stoneworks uses computer-aided design, photo-top templating and state of the art water jet stonecutters in our fabrication process. This allows us to offer unmatched quality and fit, reduce material cost, and create very little waste.

Our newest product offering, IceStone®, is a green builder’s dream surface. Made of recycled glass and concrete, IceStone® is strong like granite, not as porous as marble and heat-resistant like our other stone surfaces. Further, due to the VOC-free, high recycled content and Cradle to Cradle™ certification, IceStone® durable surfaces are ideal for projects seeking LEED certification.

Green construction is a sensible idea that will only continue to grow in the coming years. In support of this trend, Hart Stoneworks became a proud sponsor of Mountain Living Magazine's 2007 Dream Home. The Dream Home is a top-to-bottom environmentally sensitive home being built in Larkspur, Colorado. From the lumber to the light bulbs to the countertops, the Dream Home will highlight the exciting possibilities of green construction. It has been a rewarding experience for Hart Stoneworks. We invite you to learn more at www.mountainliving.com.