The EPA has recently reported an increase in calls regarding granite countertops emitting high levels of radiation. American’s love of granite countertops has created a market for granite from all over the world and a surprising number of these can contain uranium and give off radiation and radon. According to the EPA, a normal person is exposed to 360 millirem of radiation per year from both natural and industrial sources. Yet some granite has been found to emit this much radiation in just a few months if you spend just two hours per day in close range to the countertops!

Many say that not all granite is unsafe and for years it has been reported that granite contains low levels of radiation that are insignificant. But I have to say how silly is it that anyone can even claim there is a “SAFE” level of radiation for people? Have we become so complacant with chemicals and toxins in our environment that even our goverment agencies like the EPA try to tell us that there is an acceptable level? And as with many toxins I then would ask what is the risk to our children being exposed to possible radiation levels of this type?

Aside from all this controversy is the issue that granite is not eco-friendly. Its not renewable and cant be easily reused. Many sealers contain VOC’s that are harmful just like in paint. For more eco-friendly alternatives you can take a look at the website www.getwithgreen.com and they have a list of all the countertop materials with pros, cons, and eco-rating.

If you are concerned about granite countertops in your home you can contact the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technicians at aarst.org. If you have young children or are pregnant I would strongly urge you to think about this just in case. You want to make sure that the heart of your home isnt making your family sick from toxins.