The following suggestions are from the U.S. Green Seal Program 

To reduce the environmental impacts of your carpet choice, consider the following when it comes time to buy:

• Do not buy carpet at all.  Carpet is notorious for formaldehyde out gassing as well as being a haven for dust mites and other allergens

• Buy refurbished carpet whenever possible.

• Specify carpet with high overall recycled content (in the face fiber and backing), preferably postconsumer.

EPA’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG) designate a 25–100 % total recovered materials content (all post-consumer) for polyester carpet face fiber. The guidelines for nylon carpet are currently available only in draft form, but they recommend that the face fiber should have a total recovered materials content of 25–100% (1–100% of it post-consumer) and that the backing should be made of 100% recovered materials (with a post-consumer content of 35–70%).

• Ask whether environmental leasing or take-back programs are provided, to ensure that the carpet will be replaced only as necessary and reused or recycled by the producer.

• Use carpet tiles where appropriate to extend the life of the installed floorcovering.

• Buy carpet made from recyclable materials and likely to be easily accepted for recycling under existing programs. Carpet containing nylon 6 face fiber and vinyl-backed carpets are currently recyclable. No recycling programs currently exist for polyester carpet.

• Consider purchasing carpet made of wool or other natural fibers if your primary concern is the use of non-renewable resources.

• Buy carpet that is solution-dyed.

• Buy carpet that meets CRI Indoor Air Quality standards (Green Label program).

• Ensure that low VOC adhesives (CRI certified) are used during installation.

• Buy a carpet product that is consistent with the desired performance level, expected use pattern, and replacement schedule.

• Select an appropriate color for the carpet application. Light colors tend to get soiled easily and may require the frequent use of harsh cleaning chemicals and/or replacement.