Fabric roller shades show rise in popularity

Not too long ago, having an eco-friendly home was somewhat of a rarity. Now, according to the Los Angeles Times, houses that tread lightly on mother nature are a burgeoning trend in southern California.

One such abode is a four-bedroom home in Lancaster, California. This one story house features a wealth of environmentally conscious amenities both inside and out.

The builders included recycled carpeting, rain water collection tanks, LED lighting and programmable thermostats. The roof even has a series of solar panels that can provide up to 6,800 kilowatt-hours each year.

One way for homeowners to go green without completely renovating their house is to hang fabric roller shades. Industry experts say that these shades are made from PVC-free material, which is essential because PVC can be harmful to not only people, but to the earth.

"Because so many different additives are used to make PVC, recycling the plastic (or material) is extremely difficult," reports eco-cycle.org

Fabric roller shades also serve a functional purpose. Because they effectivly filter sunlight, they can prevent harmful UV rays from damaging furniture and harming the occupants inside.