Sustainable upholstery furniture: what strategies and technologies?

To advance sustainability in the upholstered furniture industry, companies can implement several key strategies:

• Education and Consumer Awareness: Educating consumers about sustainable furniture options is vital for driving demand and encouraging responsible purchasing decisions. Many consumers are unaware of the environmental impact of their furniture choices.
   
• Regulations and Recognized Sustainability Certifications: Governments worldwide are increasingly focusing on sustainable materials and processes. By proactively adopting these regulations, companies can reduce regulatory risks and enhance brand loyalty.
   
• Better Use of Industry 4.0 Technologies: Leveraging advanced technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things can optimize production processes and reduce waste. For example, identifying fabric defects before cutting can minimize material waste.
   

Brands no longer need to choose between sustainability and economic growth - both can coexist and fuel each other.

Steve Kooy, Health & Sustainability Director at BIFMA

Sustainability practices in upholstery manufacturing vary significantly across different regions, influenced by local regulations, consumer preferences, and economic factors:

• Europe: European countries have been at the forefront of sustainability efforts, implementing strict regulations and standards aimed at reducing environmental impact. Policies like the European Green Deal promote recycling and sustainable sourcing.
• Asia: In countries like China and Vietnam, which are major manufacturing hubs, sustainability practices are evolving. While larger companies are beginning to adopt sustainable measures, smaller manufacturers often prioritize cost-efficiency over environmental considerations.
• United States: In the U.S., sustainability in upholstery manufacturing has gained momentum, but the pace varies across the industry. Larger companies and luxury brands tend to lead the way, emphasizing eco-friendly materials and processes.
• South America: Countries like Brazil and Argentina are significant sources of leather, which raises sustainability concerns due to its environmental impact. The debate centers around whether leather can be considered sustainable given its ties to the cattle industry.

One of the most promising trends in the upholstered furniture industry is the rise of circular economy initiatives. This model focuses on designing furniture to be easily disassembled and recycled, extending the product lifecycle through recycling, remanufacturing, and upcycling.

Additionally, leasing programs, or the Furniture-as-a-Service (FaaS) model, are gaining traction. Instead of selling furniture outright, companies lease their products to consumers, who can return them after a set period. This model reduces waste and promotes more sustainable resource use.