Buying durable furniture that is designed to last helps reduce the amount of waste created by continually replacing disposable pieces. Also look for eco-friendly options from reputable manufacturers that are certified by groups like the Forest Stewardship Council and Greenguard.
Sustainable materials include reclaimed wood, bamboo and organic cotton. These natural fibers are renewable, biodegradable and grow without pesticides.
Materials
In the United States, 12 million tons of furniture are thrown out each year. While some of this is combusted for energy recovery, the majority ends up in landfills. Buying sustainable furniture can cut back on this waste and help conserve resources.
The materials used in sustainable furniture are often recycled or sourced from forests that are certified to the Forest Stewardship Council. They are also manufactured to reduce their environmental impact and follow social accountability standards.
Finally, these eco-friendly pieces are designed to last. This reduces the need to replace them, cutting down on production and transport costs. It also minimizes the risk of toxic chemicals contaminating indoor air quality through off-gassing.
In addition, it’s a good idea to look for versatile designs that can be repurposed or reconfigured, rather than ones that are designed to match specific aesthetics. This versatility cuts down on the need to purchase replacements as trends change. It also reduces waste from discarded packaging and the need for transportation over long distances.
Greenwashing
Sustainable furniture is made from renewable and nontoxic materials that are also biodegradable. Look for recycled plastics and metals in home furnishings, or search marketplaces like Craigslist, Freecycle, garage and estate sales and thrift stores for second-hand pieces.
Natural fibers like jute, cotton and bamboo are a good choice for fabric home furnishings. Avoid woods that have been treated with chemicals or dyes, and seek out certified ecolabels to ensure that your wooden home furnishings do not release VOCs into the air.
Look for a Cradle to Cradle certification to ensure that your home furnishings are part of the circular economy and not creating more waste. Also, choose durable furniture that can withstand the test of time and trends to reduce the need for frequent replacements. The EPA estimates that Americans spend 90% of their time indoors, so it’s essential to keep your home environment healthy and toxin-free. Look for sustainable furniture that is nontoxic and aesthetically pleasing.
Energy efficiency
Sustainable furniture often uses recycled or repurposed materials, avoids toxic chemicals and paints, and prioritizes durable designs that last. This reduces the need for frequent replacement, which has a significant impact on resources and the environment. Look for certifications such as FSC or GREENGUARD to verify the eco-friendliness of furniture you consider.
Another aspect of sustainability that is often overlooked is energy efficiency. Is the furniture manufactured in an area that utilizes renewable energy or is it shipped in a vehicle with high fuel efficiency?
Additionally, upcycling or repurposing existing furniture pieces can reduce waste and promote a circular economy. For example, reusing an old table as a shelf or a dresser cuts down on the need to manufacture new furniture and can help preserve natural resources for future generations.
Maintenance
Sustainable furniture is made with eco-friendly materials, designed to last longer and to be repaired or recycled when it is at the end of its life. It also minimizes energy used during production and transportation. It also reduces the release of harmful chemicals, like VOCs, into the environment and improves indoor air quality.
Furniture manufacturers that focus on sustainability often prioritize transparency and accountability. They may publish sustainability reports or participate in third-party certification programs. They also strive to use environmentally friendly packaging and low-impact shipping methods.
When shopping for sustainable furniture, look for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label and make sure wood comes from a sustainably harvested source. Avoid wood that takes a long time to mature, such as oak, as this can have a negative impact on the environment. Instead, choose wood that is fast-growing and renewable. This includes bamboo and cork. Also, consider purchasing furniture that is multifunctional, such as a nightstand that can be converted to a bench.