It's difficult to create generalizations about materials as different as recycled newsprint insulation and recycled pop bottle carpet. The fact is that some environmentally responsible materials are relatively expensive, while others cost less than conventional materials. Fiberboards made from agricultural fibers typically cost more than the ones made from wood fiber. By contrast, an insulated fiberglass entry door usually costs less than a solid wood door. It's also important to remember that conventional materials themselves can span a wide price spectrum.
Price comparisons can only be accurate and relevant when they consider like materials.
For example, tiles handmade in a studio from recycled glass containers will always cost more than laminate surfacing, but could compare favorably with other custom handmade finishes. Based on purchase cost alone, environmentally responsible materials can be either more or less expensive than conventional materials, but when factors like energy efficiency, durability and consistent quality are factored into the equation, most environmentally responsible materials come out as real winners. Although this kind of full cost accounting will be a valuable educational tool, most people still make purchasing decisions based on up-front price tags, so the first environmentally responsible materials to achieve market success are likely to be those priced competitively. Environmentally responsible building materials may have traditionally been regarded as a custom-home luxury, but they are increasingly finding their way into housing at all price points. Desirable characteristics such as low toxicity, durability, low maintenance requirements, energy efficiency, ease of installation and reduction in total materials used make resource efficient materials an appropriate choice for any income level.