trend

What makes furniture sustainable?

Similar to the food and drink sector, a variety of criteria play a role when it comes to the sustainability of furniture. They emerge primarily from the distinction between sustainable choices and conventional – and often inexpensive – production coupled with cost- and trend-conscious consumption.

• Renewable raw materials: Here wood still takes first place. But bamboo, cotton and new materials like algae are also renewable resources. Furniture made from recycled materials such as PET bottles or old wood fibres is a further alternative.

• Free from harmful substances: A bed that may emit harmful chemicals is out of the question for many consumers now. In addition to the main materials, the paint, glaze and other coatings should not raise any health concerns.

• Durability: A high-quality piece of furniture with a timeless design can be used for many years and handed down to the next generation. Upcycling also increases the life span of an item of furniture.

• Fair production: Sustainability also entails social responsibility. This means that good working conditions and fair wages are important considerations when it comes to buying furniture with a clean conscience.

• Short transport routes: Using regional raw materials and suppliers, combined with keeping production local, significantly improves the carbon footprint of an item of furniture.

And by the way, natural wood furniture not only dispenses with harmful substances – it even has a positive effect on the indoor climate.

(imm-cologne)