24 Feb Towards a recycle furniture market: The time is now

Recycled furniture is a non-stop growing market. It is widely known that there we are facing an environamental problem. That is why more and more companies are choosing recycling matreials to make furniture, to start a more environmentally friendly sector.

The European furniture industry could not be on a better right track. It already has a more than a solid foundation and is moving fast towrds sustainability. There is no better time than now to use more recycled and to make with them new furniture. Our planet needs to recover soon.

In fact, there is so much to talk about it.

Sustainability, an essential pillar

In other articles, we talked about our lifestyle and how is also reflected in our furniture and home decoration. That is why, an current trend is sustainability. We seek to take care of our planet at all costs and that is noticeable. As a result, we are taking more and more advantage of cardboard or plastic, as well as recycling, to make new furniture.

This is how arises upcycling or creative recycling (also known as suprarecycling). Basicall, this practice consists of reusing materials in a creative way, seking how to extend the furnitures life so that it does not end up in the landfill after a short time.

On the other hand, all of this aims to stop fast consumerism, such as fast homeware. This English term refers to cheap, low-quality furniture that only lasts a short period in good condition. This is something that we should avoid as much as possible for the planet well-being.

Circular economy and value creation

Short time ago, the European Economical and Social Comitee issued a judgement titled: ‘The European furniture industry: its recovery towards an innovative, green and circular economy’. They left something clear: the sector has a more than positive starting point.

It is said that we must be strict in terms of environmental regulations (regarding materials, products, health…), but we are also facing a powerful reality: the opportunity to commit to an economic model based on circular economy.

And without no doubts, we can choose a more environmentally responsible path and completely transform the furniture market.

Manufacturers, the starting point

Moreover, the Comittee highlights the role of manufacturers. Indeed, they are extremely important. If they produce their furniture in a sustainable way, it can be easily reused and recycled. If not, it woud be more difficult to take advantage of old furniture. We clearly see that the first step in the furniture recovery process is how the furniture is made.

But this must be supported by legislation to make the process easier to start. Therefore, the Comitee proposes that old furniture should to not be left old furniture in landfill sites, to facilitate the collection and recovery of its materials.

They also talk about reinforcing value chain. With a right labelling of quality raw materials, for example, they will prevent access to cheap ones and less sustainable ones.

Conclusion

There is still a lot to do. But if we have something clear, it is that if we consider that we are necessary potential, we will reach the goal of the making the furniture industry sustainable. It is worth trying. Don’t you think so?