The life cycle of office furniture starts with design and continues with production, packaging, transportation, and ends with the completion of the product's life. Sustainability practices starting from product design and material selection can be implemented throughout all stages to the final delivery to consumers with carefully planned strategies. Like nearly all production sectors, the carbon footprint in office furniture production is unfortunately very high.

Reducing waste as a starting point

Up to 80% of the environmental impact of office furniture is determined during the design stage. When waste is seen not just as waste but as a design flaw, and when suitable materials are used and continuous advancements in technology are utilized, waste can be prevented from the very beginning of the process. Recycling, reuse, or upcycling practices can also be integrated into the production cycle to reduce waste. In a world where the circular economy is becoming dominant, everything that can be waste must be transformed into a resource.

Resources must be used correctly

For contributing to sustainability, using resources correctly is as crucial as energy saving. It's necessary to source materials that won't disrupt nature's balance and are produced for commercial purposes. Additionally, using natural materials instead of harmful plastics and synthetics can reduce negative environmental effects and protect human health. This can also meet the expectations of customers focused on good living. Renewable energy should also find its place among priorities in terms of proper resource usage. Renewable energy sources like wind turbines and solar panels can be used to generate the electricity needed for office furniture production. Thus, becoming independent from external sources and producing the required electricity can be a significant step towards sustainability.

Toxic materials in production must be eliminated

Until now, the use of harmful chemicals in office furniture production was widespread. Foams, adhesives, paints, and application materials that emit various gases during production and for a long time after use were common. The use of such harmful substances can endanger the health of workers and end users during production, besides increasing environmental pollution. Natural materials and chemical-free design and production processes can protect the environment and contribute to sustainability.

Don't let it become waste when its life ends

When an office furniture is worn out, broken, or needs renewal, it should be repurposed in a way that contributes to the circular economy and sustainability, instead of becoming waste. For this purpose, selecting recyclable or upcycled materials from the design stage, implementing modular applications, or ensuring repairability should be aimed. This way, waste can be reduced, and a contribution to the environment and economy can be made.

With the support of today's advanced technologies, sustainability can be easily achieved. In the office furniture sector, traditionally known for its conventional methods, different approaches are needed for change. Innovative ideas and a determined approach to the subject can transform the office furniture sector from being part of the problem to being part of the solution in terms of sustainability and environmental impacts.