Sustainability is a hot topic right now. Many people wonder how they can reduce their carbon footprint in life; one of the simplest ways has been to look for products that help them achieve this goal. For those who also want to improve their living situation, those products include furniture pieces like tables, chairs, and couches. (Image Credit: Michael Schwarzenberger/Pixabay)
There is a large emphasis on furniture sustainability right now. Furniture brands are focusing on making their products more environmentally-friendly without sacrificing quality. Sustainability is becoming more of a priority among consumers, so the more a brand emphasizes their commitment to sustainability, the more likely they’ll attract loyal customers who share their values.
As many as 42.58 million housing units are occupied by renters in the United States alone. Furniture brands are constantly competing to win these renters over and be part of their space. In order to stand apart from the rest, a furniture brand must emphasize what makes them unique. A great way for a brand to do that is to show its dedication to being environmentally sustainable.
So, how exactly are furniture companies doing to prove their dedication to sustainability? If you notice a furniture company participating in one (or more) of these trends, it’s likely trying to show its dedication to a more sustainable world.
Trend 1: Surveying the Source
Furniture companies are paying close attention to the materials their products are made from. Certain materials, such as synthetic fibers and plywood, contain chemicals that can negatively impact the environment and someone’s overall health.
Furniture companies are also looking to build longer-lasting furniture out of environmentally-friendly materials. If a piece of furniture is not made to last, it will end up in the trash faster. Companies looking to build longer-lasting pieces of furniture should invest in materials like wood, bamboo, and metal.
Don’t be surprised when you start seeing heavier and more sustainable pieces of furniture in stores. Companies are straying away from making lower-quality furniture that has a short life cycle. Instead, they’re focusing on creating high-quality pieces that will last.
Trend 2: Improving the Manufacturing Process
Another sustainable trend furniture companies are participating in is improving the manufacturing process. It’s estimated that 90% of furniture is now made overseas. These countries may have not have as many restrictions on pollution, so they could be pumping out carbon emissions at a higher rate. Plus, transporting the furniture also adds on to a company’s carbon footprint.
You may see more locally manufactured pieces of furniture in stores because of this. Furniture stores may also look into manufacturing equipment that powers on renewable energy.
Trend 3: Ditching the Toxins
Certain materials contain chemicals that are not good for the environment. For example, the chemical formaldehyde is found in plywood and some fabrics. This chemical is known irritant that can cause a number of health problems, including cancer. There’s also a chance a couch you’re interested has flame retardants in its filling.
This year, you’ll see some furniture stores promote their chemical-free furniture. These companies identify the harm these materials do, and are changing the manufacturing process so that their furniture is more natural and chemical-free.
Trend 4: Crafting Furniture from Recycled Plastic
According to the UN Environment Programme, half of all plastic produced is designed to be used only once — and then thrown away. China is the world’s largest producer of plastics, contributing 25% of the world’s plastic production.
Furniture brands are attempting to reduce plastic pollution by crafting furniture made with recycled plastic. Some brands are creating different types of accessories and upholstery, while others create chairs and tables made from plastic. Incorporating recycled plastic into furniture reduces global waste and gives companies a unique trait they can share in their brand story.
Trend 5: Reducing Waste
More and more furniture stores are putting an emphasis on reducing waste in a number of ways. The first way is by creating longer-lasting pieces of furniture that won’t be in the landfill within a short time. The second way is by shipping furniture in recycled cardboard boxes and using other recycled materials for shipping. If you buy the latest furniture trends from an eco-friendly store, check if their delivery options are also sustainable.
The issue of environmental sustainability is top-of-mind for many people across the globe. They’re doing little things to reduce their carbon footprint each day, like investing in energy-efficient technology. For example, a programmable thermostat saves you an average of $180 each year in energy costs while making your home more energy-efficient.
You don’t have to make big investments in technology to support sustainability, though. Furniture companies understand this, and that’s why so many of them are starting to follow more sustainable trends. They understand that the small things, like buying a toxin-free couch and a chair made from recycled plastic, can make an impact. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your Beverly Hills home with luxury goods or simply trying to lead a healthier life, rely on these furniture trends to stand out in 2020.
