Is Composite Decking An Eco-friendly Choice?

Decided 2023 is the year to go green?

Determined to make better, more environmentally focused decisions?

One area where you can really make a difference is in your garden.

Yet, when the world is telling you to cut back on plastic, you’d be forgiven for wondering if composite decking is a backward step.

Well, the good news is – it’s not!

On the contrary, composite decking is actually a great way to boost your garden’s eco-credentials.

So, if you’re planning to make improvements to your garden this year, read on to discover why composite decking makes a great – and green – choice.

What is composite decking?

We’ve all heard of decking, and most people have probably heard of composite decking too – but we’ll bet in reality few people are 100% sure what the ‘composite’ bit means.

Allow us to explain…

Put simply, composite decking is a decking board that’s made up of wood and plastic – which is why its full title is WPC decking (wood plastic composite).

What makes composite decking eco-friendly?

There are several factors that contribute to composite decking’s eco-friendly status.

Firstly, it’s made using a combination of recycled wood fibres, recycled polythene, and bonding agents.

This reduces the amount of waste going to landfill and results in an environmentally friendly, long-lasting decking board that not only looks great but requires minimal maintenance.

This diminished need for routine care is the next environmental plus.

You see, it’s not just about how and what it’s made from – the ongoing impact of composite decking is an important consideration too. And it’s here that this hardwearing material really comes into its own.

Yes, materials such as traditional timber decking can last a lifetime, but not without constant upkeep and attention – and not without the use of chemicals.

Opt for wooden decking and you’re prescribing to lifelong use of paints and preservatives to prevent damage from insects and mould. Whilst this may sound innocent enough, invariably these treatments involve the use of harsh chemicals, which are detrimental to the environment.

Other ways to make your garden more eco-friendly

Combine composite decking with other eco-friendly choices and you’ll be well on your way to a more sustainable garden.

Additional ideas include:

·         Avoid pesticides

They might be efficient at killing weeds and pesky insects, but pesticides can also harm unintended targets and cause untold damage to the surrounding environment.  

·         Use a water butt

One thing we’re rarely short of in the UK is rain, but constant watering – even during the summer months – is necessary to keep your garden in tip-top condition. The best, and most environmentally efficient, way to do this is to invest in a water butt.

Collect and store rainwater all year round for a ready supply of water whenever it’s required. There’s also the added bonus that the pH of rainwater is perfectly suited for plants, so it’s a healthier option for the garden than tap water.

·         Attract wildlife

Turn your garden into an animal and insect haven. Ponds, wood piles, or simply well-populated borders will all encourage wildlife and help to increase biodiversity.

·         Compost

Quality compost is key to a healthy garden – and, as with all things, there’s nothing quite like homemade!

Not only does home composting help to recycle waste from your garden, but making your own compost also reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Helping to promote a healthy, ‘green’ garden.

Look good, do good

A garden that not only looks the part, but requires less maintenance AND firmly ticks the box for being an environmentally friendly choice – surely that’s a no-brainer?!

If you’re keen to enhance your garden and want to make better choices in 2023, then why not take a look at the great range of high-quality decking we have available here at Modern Garden?

With a range of boards available, in a choice of great colours, shop our collection of composite decking accessories now.

Alternatively, if you’d like to find out more about composite decking and how it could help you to live a more sustainable lifestyle, get in touch.