The Environment - Future-Forward Furniture

“I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use.” Mother Teresa

Eco-friendly, better for the planet, or environmentally safe. These are all terms used in the definition of sustainable.

But how sustainable is our furniture? There are certain characteristics that make any furniture sustainable – the use of materials, the manufacturing process, transportation from where it was manufactured, and how useful it is.

Sustainable furniture is made from materials that have certain characteristics. These materials may be recycled. Anything that is made from materials that had previously been used for something else and are then reused in the making of new furniture.

As pictured above (from left to right): Sits Sofas maintain an Environmentally Friendly Ethos and Look for Certification from Authorities such as the FSC

Sustainable furniture can also be made from a material that is renewable. Bamboo grows easily and can be replaced quickly, so it can be used as a renewable resource, so cane chairs may be a popular choice. Bontempi Casa is renowned for its non-polluting, metal-free and plastic-free paints. Its manufacturing processes and finishes are emission-free and many of its products are recyclable. 

Using sustainable materials is only part of producing sustainable furniture. Responsible manufacturing practices matter just as much and have a great impact on our planet.

Manufacturing practices have to be safe for the environment, which means that manufacturers should make sure that they do not pollute the environment by checking carbon emissions, and they should practice fair trade and not harm communities or destroy sensitive environments to find material for their products. Look for certification from authorities such as FSC, or the Forest Stewardship Council.

Since transportation of finished products or even raw materials for manufacturing also uses energy, responsibility in transporting is also part of producing a sustainable product.

Any furniture that increases efficiency by providing greater utility for the user, such as multifunctional furniture is always a good option. It will take up less space and effectively solve the problem that it was meant to address. For instance, the Calligaris Quadro Bar Table is the perfect space-saver, made to operate easily and is a useful piece of furniture. Bonaldo Sofa Beds are also great examples of multifunctional furniture.

Sits also maintain an environmentally friendly ethos and work closely with the local community. Skilled seamstresses and upholsterers craft each product, while Sits work hard to source as many eco-friendly materials as possible.

The future of the planet and of next generations depends on us. That is why we must invest in environmental sustainability, through the responsible use of our resources and not continue to live in a throwaway society.