2021/05/29 16:26:01
A Complete Guide: How to Buy and Sell Sustainable Furniture
The modern-day citizen has recently developed a heart for taking care of the environment we live in. From the cars we drive to the production of electricity, from the food we consume to the food packaging we use, and now to the kind of furniture we use. However, this is not to say that the transition has been fully made in all of the above fields.
This guide is intended to present a deeper understanding of sustainable furniture. It will detail the prices, how they’re assembled, different fashion designs, as well as buying and selling tips for you. Do read on to find out more.
What is Sustainable Furniture
Sustainable furniture is all about the materials used, the manufacturing process, and how the parts are shipped and distributed. When anything is sustainable, it usually means that the resources were recycled and given a new life as furniture, or that it is made of natural materials that can be easily regrown.
It also implies that the production process is as environmentally friendly as possible, with low carbon emissions. Shopping locally is also more environmentally friendly because it reduces the need for imports from other countries and reduces the carbon footprint. So we could agree that eco-friendly furniture is majorly about the choices we all make as a collective.
Features of Sustainable Furniture
Eco-Friendly Materials
Purchasing new furniture made from recycled materials uses less processing and resources than purchasing a sofa made entirely of new fabrics, wood, and other materials. Look for items that are “Cradle to Cradle” (C2C) certified, and if possible, ask the salesperson for further detail about the recyclable materials that were used to make the item. Some of the sustainable materials include;
Recycled Wood
Wood isn't always easy to recycle, however, it can be repurposed. Even, since it is so long-lasting and eternal, you can never want to get rid of it! If you like the look of wood furniture, you're already on your way to choosing eco-friendly furniture materials for your home. There are two options:
● You can choose eco-friendly wood furniture from recycled sources or,
● Sustainably sourced new wood furniture.
The maker of recycled wood is effectively recycling wood from either old furniture or other items. An added advantage of using reclaimed wood is the aesthetics that it brings forth.
You should look for upholstery and coverings that are made from a recycled source in addition to the eco-friendly “skeleton" of your furniture. You'll be well on your way to achieving your target of using only eco-friendly fabrics in your home if you select eco-friendly furniture upholstered with hemp or organic cotton from a sustainable source.
Sustainable Fabrics
Hemp is a super hardy and resilient plant that can be cultivated without the use of harmful chemicals and regrows quickly. Organic cotton is grown in a responsible and sustainable way, is extremely comfy, and looks fantastic as upholstery for seats, couches, and some other types of eco furniture designs.
Bamboo
If you've ever had bamboo in your yard, you're well aware of how easily it rebounds after being trimmed. Bamboo is currently used in a variety of eco furniture designs and is both attractive and long-lasting. If you select a bamboo dinner table, you'll not only have an aesthetically pleasing new product, but you'll also have peace of mind knowing that the bamboo didn't require chemicals to grow and can last for years before having to be replaced.
Don't overlook secondhand pieces when looking for eco-friendly furniture; great products can also be found at yard sales and thrift stores. These, too, are highly eco-friendly, with the added advantage of being often low-cost and, in many cases, exclusive.
Metal Furniture
In terms of recycled furniture, metal furniture is frequently a good bet, and steel and aluminum furniture are almost always made of recycled materials. Metal furniture is always reusable but double-check the labels to be sure. When you're ready to move on, some eco-friendly furniture companies also allow you to return parts directly to them to be recycled. The best choices for health and safety eco furniture designs are solid wood or metal with no VOC finishes.
Leather
Leather produced out of apple pomace or other organic materials, which is used as an upholstery material for armchairs and sofas. Another eco furniture material choice is mycelium, which is made from fungi and has good sound-absorbing properties, and is 100 percent biodegradable, though it is still in production. It can be used for acoustic panels in offices or lampshades, among other items, because of its suede-like structure.
Eco Furniture Processing
Furniture is one of the most difficult things to adjust and develop for those who choose to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Because of the eco furniture manufacturing practices, large chain stores in the furniture industry also have a high carbon footprint. However, the vast majority are attempting to step in the right direction by making incremental improvements wherever possible to become more environmentally conscious.
More people are becoming aware of the importance of making environmentally conscious decisions about the goods they use in their homes. However, are all green claims truthful? Since this isn't always the case, it's essential to have all of the facts. Sustainable furniture isn't easy to make or find...however, it's also not impossible.
There are several ways to breathe new life into old furniture. Soft furnishings can also be reupholstered for a fraction of the cost of new furniture, and there are a variety of exciting and modern eco-friendly furnishing fabrics to choose from. A few new throws and cushions can also be used to refresh soft furnishings. These are often available in eco-friendly products.
Although sorting through manufacturing processes, materials, and life cycle evaluations takes time and effort, some general guidelines can assist you in creating stylish and sustainable furniture.
Development methods with a low carbon footprint and a neutral or positive social impact (fairly made, fair trade). Furniture is made of recycled materials that appear green, but its value degrades if the transportation or manufacturing processes consume a lot of energy.
Durability
The closed-loop recycling cycle underpins sustainable furniture. Sustainable furniture companies strive to create furniture that can be reused, disassembled, and reassembled multiple times – or that can be used for a lifetime (or two). The environmental impact should also be kept at a minimum in eco furniture processing.
When it comes to sourcing products, it has a low environmental impact. Is the raw material secure, reusable, and recyclable? What about post-production? Is it harmful to the environment?
Why Should Furniture Companies Care about Eco Furniture?
Sustainable furniture is more than a marketing slogan. Environmentally friendly furniture companies and the environment have suffered, and continue to suffer, as a result of the manufacture of once valuable household properties that are now disregarded and often disposed of in a careless manner.
Something needs to change, and a movement is afoot to restore moderation in the use of natural resources, consideration of the impact on the environment, reverence for the artisans whose expertise we depend on, and, eventually, love for the finished product.
According to reports, the global eco-friendly furniture market was valued at $35.2 in 2019 and is expected to grow even further by 2027. The market is being driven by the increasing use of sustainable materials in furniture production to help the environment.
Furthermore, growing initiatives such as environmentally friendly housing projects in various countries have expanded the market for environmentally friendly furniture among consumers. Additionally, the demand is expected to be driven by an influx of millennial and generation Z consumers buying eco-friendly furniture over the forecast period.
For years, there has been an increase in demand for furniture with a better environmental life cycle evaluation. More recent statistics indicate that the trend is continuing: three-quarters of consumers consider sustainability when purchasing furniture. This makes “green” furniture appealing to furniture manufacturers and retailers not just from an ideological standpoint, but also from a business standpoint.
In response to the eco-friendly furniture trend, businesses are committing to sustainability in several ways. Trying to recreate classic pieces in an environmentally friendly manner is one way that eco furniture manufacturers add value to sustainable furniture.
The aesthetically pleasing outdoor chairs, for example, have increased in popularity over time. Most outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners gravitate toward these items, which are already the brand premium in luxury homes.
Many sustainable furniture inc are now closely scrutinizing the chemicals used in their manufacturing processes, as well as any potentially hazardous substances released into the atmosphere as a result of their operations.
Well after they leave the manufacturing plant, the finishings, treatments, and binding agents used on furniture may pose a danger to consumers. In a process known as "off-gassing," furniture made with formaldehyde or flame-retardant chemicals can release toxic gases into the home, posing a risk to humans, animals, and the environment.
The furniture industry's increased environmental awareness, as well as strengthened environmental legislation, has resulted in the avoidance of hazardous materials and processes. Regulatory authorities oversee the furniture transportation, manufacture, use, and disposal of potentially hazardous chemicals.
These were developed in order to reduce the risk of formaldehyde pollution from composite wood products. Sustainable furniture manufacturers are limited on how much of the substance they can use in plywood, medium-density fiberboard parts, particleboard, and hardwood.
A certification program to ensure responsible energy use, material procurement, and social practices among the business furnishings industry is among the other industry organizations spearheading sustainability efforts. Simultaneously, since its establishment in 2006, the Sustainable Furnishings Council has been at the forefront of sustainability efforts.
How to Buy Sustainable Furniture from Factories
Eco furniture factory shopping could be confusing at first, however, with proper research you can catch a glimpse of success and stick to it if you’re patient enough. Here are a few questions you should answer on your research journey:
● Is the piece made in a country that practices green building? What was the total distance that the piece had to travel?
● Is the item long-lasting? Cheaply made items don't last as long as more expensive items and end up in landfills shortly after purchase.
● What kind of materials and chemicals are used in the artwork? Is the furniture's frame made of solid wood or particleboard that contains formaldehyde? Was the fabric treated with a stain-resistant chemical by the manufacturer? A microfiber or leather material is preferable to one that needs to be sprayed for stain resistance.
● What types of finishes are used to add color or seal the item? Is it a water-based paint, dye, or finish? If not, there's a good chance it's high in harmful VOCs.
● Is it possible that a particular material will be a better option? While exotic woods are beautiful, bamboo, stone, or porcelain may be more durable, require less harmful finishes, and have a less environmental impact.
Also, try and follow up on the design and manufacturing process, with the aim of learning the true carbon footprint the company leaves on the planet. The green furniture companies should also have a number of certificates proving the truthfulness of their sustainable furniture claims. These certificates play a collective role for all fossil fuel users, willing to switch to modern-day trends.
These certifications include:
● Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE): This public-private collaboration increases carpet recycling and reuses, reducing the amount of old carpet that ends up in landfills.
● From Cradle to Cradle(C2C): Furniture that is C2C approved can be removed to be restored and recycled, or pieces can be replaced. This activity increases the piece's lifespan and makes it more sustainable by keeping it out of landfills.
● Eco3Home; This hangtag attests to the manufacturer's responsibility in sourcing and manufacturing, as well as their ability to provide protection, health, and environmental information for each registered product.
● FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Certification: FSC-certified furniture is made from wood that has been harvested safely and meets the Forest Stewardship Council's standards. FSC labeling assures consumers that the products used are from renewable and legal sources since it is the world's most trusted sustainable forest management solution.
● The Green Housekeeping Seal of Approval is given to products that meet certain criteria. Cleaning and beauty goods, construction materials, paints and coatings, and appliances are all eligible for this seal. Scientists and engineers analyze a product's packaging, ingredients, logistics, and manufacturing before granting approval.
● Green Label Plus: Look for this label to ensure that the carpet you're buying has the lowest chemical emissions on the market.
● GREENGUARD Certified: Use this credential to find indoor products with low chemical emissions, such as construction materials and furnishings. It benefits both you and the environment because GREENGUARD-certified products have no negative impact on air quality.
● LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) LEED is a program that encourages and certifies a whole-building approach to sustainability. LEED examines five categories to certify a structure: water conservation, energy efficiency, sustainable site construction, sustainable materials, and good indoor air quality.
● Low VOC: Check the mark of a commodity to see if it has a low VOC. Low VOC indicates that the substance or finish is water-based or does not contain contaminants that could cause off-gassing.
● Rainforest Alliance's Rediscovered Wood Certification verifies that a piece of furniture is made from recycled wood.
● SBD (Sustainable by Design) is a program that encourages furniture manufacturers to source and produce home furnishings in a sustainable manner.
● Zero Waste to Landfill: This award recognizes businesses who send less than 1% of their waste to landfills.
One other consideration is the shipping costs you will incur. Ideally, locally manufactured eco furniture is the best in reducing this cost, however, it does not mean that it will offer the best value for your money. You may find the best eco-friendly furniture companies at a trade show in China. This means there will be a certain shipping cost especially if you’re not from the Asian countries. Take the time before fully deciding on which vendor suits you best.
How to Sell Eco-Friendly Furniture
As a distributor, there are various ways you can navigate this scene. As you’re establishing your business in selling sustainable furniture, first see if any of your friends or family members have something they want to buy. Then offer them your services. You could come across some genuine, lucrative financial deals this way.
If your friends and family are not yet interested in this, the next best place to sell affordable, environmentally friendly furniture is setting up a used furniture store. This way you help prevent dumping of furniture as waste. You can also look at being an online seller/reseller on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Depop. Also, try selling local furniture to save you money on transportation to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
If you want to sell something different, avoid setting up major chains. Instead create a smaller, independent store, which makes it easier to be environmentally conscious. To ensure you're having something as sustainable as possible, don't be afraid to answer questions like what materials and finishes are used, and how the goods were made.
People seem to care, now more than ever before, about saving the earth and maintaining environmental health. As a result, incorporating eco-friendly practices into the business framework is a common trend that isn't going away anytime soon. Market mindsets are changing as well, not just businesses.
Do try and maintain a green brand image for sustainable furniture companies. A combination of eco-friendly practices and marketing is needed to cultivate a green brand image. Examining what facets of your business customers engage with and demonstrating the company's contribution to the environment across those channels is the perfect way to foster a clear green furniture brand picture.
This can take the form of recycled packaging, improved transportation processes, or green installations in stores and offices. The most critical aspect of building green brand equity is bringing about the progress that your consumers will believe in and assisting them in making environmentally conscious decisions.
Starting to produce and/or encourage sustainable goods is a perfect way to promote your company in the most environmentally friendly way possible. It could be anything from shopping bags to notepads to pens. Simply print the company's logo on them and distribute them to your employees. You'll also be promoting eco-friendly ideas within your organization, making your workers more aware of how they handle the environment.
It is important to not only demonstrate to the rest of the world that your company is now environmentally conscious, but also to encourage this concept among your employees. Make sure they know where your eco furniture products come from and who your vendors are. The more open you are with your employees, the better.
Encourage their questions and initiative suggestions by communicating as much as possible about your new approach. Consider including certain forms of bonuses to encourage people to sort their garbage or use environmentally friendly items.
Using billboards and loads of paper to promote your company would do more to tarnish your green image. Fortunately, there are many choices available for businesses who choose to do business in a more environmentally and technologically sustainable manner. One of the most appealing aspects of digital marketing is the ability to cut costs and have more creative control over the graphics, not to mention the ability to reach target audiences that would otherwise be inaccessible.
While selling these eco furniture products, you will find that the environmentalist customers will be more enthusiastic towards making purchases. However, this also means that they will put your whole entrepreneurial process under scrutiny to check if indeed it is eco-friendly. Focus on keeping this process clean to avoid lawsuits, losses, and actual damage to the environment.
Top Sustainable Furniture Brands
There are many inexpensive and environmentally friendly furniture options available. These brands use materials derived from renewable resources and recycled products, as well as fair trade and environmentally friendly manufacturing methods. The best sustainable furniture brands include;
Etsy
While Etsy is best known for its handmade and exclusive items, it also partners with vendors who repurpose and upcycle furniture, such as wooden wall art and pallet coffee tables. Etsy is a certified B Corporation, which means it prioritizes people and the environment. You'll find that one unique piece made by designers from different parts of the world. Keep an eye out for new designs added regularly. You never know when you'll come across a one-of-a-kind find.
West Elm
West Elm is known for its home decor and furniture all over the world—and now the company has fair trade and eco-friendly collections as well! The brand declares its contribution to sustainability and forest conservation with FSC Certified products. West Elm provides hundreds of choices for those of us who care about the environment, with a passion for responsible retail and beautiful, modern architecture.
Burrow
Burrow produces couches; dubbed as “the internet’s favorite sofa”, these couches are not only comfortable, stain-resistant, and animal-friendly, but they're also sustainably sourced. Furniture comes in modules that can be quickly assembled, disassembled, and rearranged, and is shipped in 100 percent recycled cardboard boxes(sounds familiar?). Burrow's furniture is also lead-free, flame-retardant-free, and formaldehyde-free, so it's designed to last and keep you healthy.
Avocado
Avocado is likely to have been listed if you've ever looked for an eco-friendly mattress. Did you know, however, that this B Corp even sells recycled furniture? Avocado furniture is fully sustainable since it is made entirely of recycled wood (with no additives or flame retardants). The company also donates 1% of its profits to environmental causes and is accredited as carbon neutral.
Thuma
Thuma is an internationally influenced brand known for its superior design and craftsmanship. The company designs thoughtful bedroom furniture that is tailored to your specific lifestyle requirements. Thuma also provides modern convenience: parts are delivered directly to your door and can be put together in minutes.
Also, Thuma eco furniture is produced from repurposed rubberwood. The brand harvests this from a sustainable tree plantation. Thuma gives back to the environment by planting a tree for each eco furniture purchase. This is done through its partnership with One Tree Planted.
Citizenry
The Citizenry collaborates with artisans from all over the world to bring you high-quality, limited-edition handcrafted eco furniture products. From a bathroom sauna set made from locally sourced hinoki wood to a butterfly chair made from rattan vine, everything is made in a fair and sustainable environment from start to finish. The Citizenry also gives artisan communities 10% of its profits in the form of entrepreneur growth grants.
Chairish
Chairish is a sustainable and trendy marketplace for designer brands, retailers, galleries, and artisans to buy and sell antique and modern art, decor, and furniture. Curators pre-screen the goods, and once ordered, the company facilitates and handles shipping from the seller to the customer.
There are also how-tos, home tours, and style tips on the blog to help you embrace your new decor. Every year, the organization awards two scholarships to students with a passion for design.
Conclusion
Furniture that is both environmentally sustainable and adaptable is the way of the future. Green furniture that is both durable and comfortable leads to an eco-friendly lifestyle. It's also a decision that helps people as well as the world. It also benefits the designers and manufacturers of the products.
Begin your journey with environmentally-friendly furniture. Look for items made of eco-friendly materials and ask the right questions of furniture store employees about their products' environmental effects.
Be sure to visit the CIFF furniture trade show, If you're interested in finding a pool of environmentally friendly furniture companies to buy eco furniture from, or if you’re one yourself. Do remember to keep this article as a reference for when you make the switch from a seller to the buyer or vice versa. Good luck, and happy green life!
Looking for the latest furniture designs and the best suppliers?
0/500
All comments
No data.