What is sustainability?

According to the Brundtland Commission of the United Nations in 1983 – “Sustainability involves meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” It basically means reducing harm on the environment and limiting wastage of resources. In terms of an office furniture, relates to an eco-friendly design, where the product can be disassembled and recycled to make new products. For furniture to be sustainable, they have to be of high quality and sourced responsibly so that it does not fall apart and end up in a landfill.

What Are Sustainable Furniture Materials?

Sustainable furniture is made from materials that are easily renewable, can be recycled or repurposed. Renewable furniture ensures the natural ecosystem remains in place and is able to maintain itself. As a result, forests continue to grow and produce wood. Sustainable furniture is also made with materials that are recycled or reclaimed. This means that these materials have previously been used for something else and are then reused for making furniture. The use of safer materials also makes furniture sustainable. The use of finishes that do not off-gas or are low VOC contributes to its safety in everyday use.

What are Non-Toxic Lacquers?

Manufacturers sometimes use artificial and toxic solvent-based lacquers to treat or finish the product that gives furniture (and cars) the “new cars” smell. These Solvent-based lacquers increase pollution in the environment by emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde. A non-toxic alternative to this would be water-based lacquers to finishing wood furniture. If you are unsure if a varnish is a solvent or water-based, check the label as most varnishes will specify if they have a low VOC which is what you would be looking for. If you want more information, get in touch with us and we will help you out.

What is a sustainable option for office lighting?

LED lights are gaining popularity for all the right reasons. They are far more energy-efficient than traditional lights and unlike CFLs, are mercury-free and hence better for the environment. Most LED lamps fit easily into existing light sockets and use 90% less energy than traditional bulbs. To put things in perspective, halogen bulbs typically dim and burn out in about two years. LEDs last up to ten times longer.

How useful is sustainable furniture?

Sustainable furniture is also extremely functional, in addition to being great for the environment. It is and should be designed to be durable so it does not need to be replaced quickly. Multi-functional furniture may prove to be of greater utility as it saves space, money and resources. Durable furniture will have a longer lifespan and hence will promote the health of the planet by not adding to the landfills.

What does “FSC-certified” mean?

FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council. This council certifies wood as sustainably harvested. It means that the forests are managed well and that the people involved in this process of harvesting and milling are treated fairly. This concept was developed to protect the biodiversity of forests throughout the world. The FSC recycled label means the wood in the product comes from reclaimed or reused material.

What are the benefits of sustainable furniture?

Sustainable furniture has environmental, economic as well as social benefits. The longer life cycle of sustainable furniture ensures that it does not end up in a landfill couple of years down the line. Moreover, there would be a significant reduction in deforestation if old furniture is recycled. The multifunctionality aspect of sustainable furniture is a cost-effective solution for your office space. Lastly, with sustainable furniture, you project an eco-friendly corporate image that improves the employees’ as well as customers’ perception of you.

How can we help you make sustainable choices for your office furniture?

At Radius Office, we help you be more sustainable by providing you with high-quality and durable products for your office. Moreover, our wide range of modular solutions boasts of multifunctionality and customizability that suits your changing needs and makes it an eco-friendly option.