What is sustainable furniture, really? The term sustainable furniture is bandied about everywhere, and not the least by by manufacturers who keep telling us their furniture is sustainable. Not all of them are telling the complete truth, as green-washing is one of the biggest trends right now. Let us demystify sustainability by taking a look at what makes furniture sustainable.
Materials:
Sustainable furniture is made of material that has certain characteristics. It is recycled or re-purposed, renewable, and uses safer materials.
Manufacturing Practices:
Using sustainable materials is only part of producing sustainable furniture. Responsible manufacturing practices matter just as much.
Transportation:
Since transportation also uses energy, responsibility in transporting is also part of producing a sustainable product.
- It can be efficiently transported and does not use excessive space and energy during transport.
- Locally produced furniture using only locally-sourced materials has a reduced carbon footprint.
Use:
The piece of furniture should also be usable and durable.
- Furniture that increases efficiency by providing greater utility for the user, such as multifunctional furniture is always preferable.
- Durability matters because well made furniture with a longer functional lifespan contributes to the health of the planet by not adding to the landfills.
