When designing a garden, paving is a key element that can define the space, enhance aesthetics, and provide functionality. Many homeowners and landscapers love the look of Indian sandstone. With its rich, varied colours and durable nature, it has become a popular choice for patios and pathways. However, have you ever considered where your sandstone comes from and how it is sourced?

Understanding the journey of sandstone—from quarry to your garden—reveals some troubling environmental and ethical concerns. Let’s explore the origins of sandstone paving, the impacts of its production, and how we can make more sustainable choices.

The Beauty and Origins of Sandstone Paving

Sandstone is a natural rock formed over millions of years in areas where sand accumulated, such as riverbeds, deserts, and coastal regions. Due to its attractive colour variations—ranging from reds and yellows to golden browns—it has been a favourite for landscaping projects. Historically, in the UK, York stone was the preferred choice for paving, but as costs increased, Indian sandstone became the go-to option.

India is one of the world’s largest producers of sandstone, exporting millions of tonnes each year. However, while the material itself is beautiful and durable, the process of extracting and transporting it raises serious ethical and environmental questions.

The Dark Side of Sandstone Sourcing

Ethical Issues: Labour Exploitation and Worker Rights

A major concern with Indian sandstone is the lack of regulation in the mining industry. Weak laws and poor enforcement mean that workers in the quarries often face harsh and exploitative conditions.

• Child Labour: It is estimated that in Rajasthan’s Bundi district alone, up to 20,000 children work in the sandstone mining industry. Many of these children work in dangerous conditions for as little as 10 rupees a day (approximately 10p).
• Indebtedness: Workers often take loans from mine owners to cover living expenses. However, with annual interest rates of over 200%, these debts become nearly impossible to pay off. Many workers remain trapped in a cycle of debt that can last generations.
• Health Hazards: More than 11 million people in India have been exposed to silicosis-causing dust from sandstone mining. Without proper protective equipment, workers inhale fine particles that cause fatal lung diseases.
• Caste Discrimination: A significant portion of the workforce comes from the Dalit community—historically known as the ‘Untouchables.’ These individuals often face discrimination and exploitation, making it even harder for them to escape poverty.
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Environmental Consequences: A Hidden Cost

The environmental impact of sandstone mining is severe, affecting ecosystems, air quality, and water resources.

• Habitat Destruction: Quarrying requires clearing vast areas of land, leading to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Wildlife habitats are destroyed, and soil quality deteriorates.
• Air Pollution: The process of cutting and transporting sandstone generates enormous amounts of dust. This dust settles on surrounding farmland, reducing soil fertility and harming plants.
• Water Contamination: Sandstone mining requires large amounts of water for cutting and processing. In India’s arid regions, this depletes precious groundwater reserves. During the rainy season, runoff from quarries carries chemicals and pollutants into local water sources, affecting human, plant, and animal health.
• Carbon Footprint: The transportation of sandstone is a significant contributor to its unsustainability. Each year, over 2.1 million shipments of sandstone leave India, consuming vast amounts of fossil fuels in the process.
• Lack of Rehabilitation: While Indian mining laws require quarry operators to restore and rehabilitate land after mining, this rarely happens in practice. Abandoned quarries often become wastelands, further harming the environment.

Making Ethical and Sustainable Choices

So, what can we do to ensure our sandstone paving is sourced responsibly? The good news is that we have options. As garden designers and homeowners, we can take steps to make more ethical and environmentally friendly choices.

Choose Reputable Suppliers

If you love the look of Indian sandstone, buy from suppliers that adhere to ethical and environmental standards. Look for companies that are members of the Ethical Trading Initiative or participate in programs like the Marshalls Stone Shipper Partnership, which ensure fair wages, better working conditions, and responsible environmental practices. Reputable companies provide certifications that verify the sustainability of their products.

Consider Local and Reclaimed Materials

One of the best ways to reduce the environmental impact of your paving is to choose local or reclaimed materials.

• Reclaimed stone: Reusing stone from old buildings or roads reduces waste and gives materials a second life.
• Locally quarried stone: Choosing stone from UK sources, such as York stone or Welsh slate, cuts down on emissions from long-distance transportation.
• Alternative materials: Instead of sandstone paving, consider reclaimed bricks, cobbles, or local shingle for a more sustainable solution.

Explore Permeable and Eco-Friendly Options

Sustainability isn’t just about where materials come from—it’s also about how they interact with the environment once installed.

• Permeable paving: Allows water to drain naturally, reducing runoff and preventing waterlogging.
• Grass paving grids: Combine greenery with stability, making them a great alternative for driveways and paths.
• Recycled materials: Modern paving options include recycled glass, rubber, and concrete that are both stylish and sustainable.

The Future of Sustainable Garden Design

As awareness of sustainability grows, more people are seeking ethical and eco-friendly solutions for their gardens. The choices we make today can shape the future of the landscaping industry. By opting for responsible sourcing, alternative materials, and innovative paving techniques, we can create stunning gardens that are both beautiful and environmentally conscious.

The next time you plan a patio, path, or driveway, think about where your materials come from. By making informed choices, you can contribute to a more ethical and sustainable world—without compromising on style.

Want more sustainable gardening tips? Visit PurelyPlanting for expert advice on eco-friendly landscaping and design ideas.