According to the 2018 Global Status Report, 40% of global carbon emissions come from the built environment, including the furniture industry. As consumers become more eco-conscious, having a sustainable business in the Philippines is crucial. Eco-friendly plastics for furniture have become a trend to reduce the furniture industry’s carbon footprint.

Types of Eco-friendly Plastics for Furniture

This article will briefly discuss the different types of eco-friendly plastics for furniture and the key aspects of sustainability in the furniture industry.

Polylactic Acid (PLA)

It is derived from starch, typically made of cassava starch or corn, which is compostable and biodegradable under industrial conditions. It is used for furniture components like chair shells, table surfaces, and other decorative elements.

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)

It is a fully biodegradable plastic produced by microbial fermentation of sugars or lipids. Since it is highly water resistant, it is the perfect material for outdoor furniture.

Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (rPET) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

These are made from recycled PET and HDPE bottles, jugs, and containers from common consumer goods (e.g. soap bottles and milk jugs). It reduces plastic waste and minimizes the use of natural resources. Due to its durability and versatility, it is used in fabric components for upholstery and cushioning. 

Critical Aspects of Sustainability in the Furniture Industry

Let’s dive into why sustainability in the furniture industry is important.

Design

Shifting the furniture industry to sustainability begins with the design process. Design furniture that uses less durable materials that require less energy. It should last long and can be reused, recycled, or upcycled.

Material Sourcing

Locally source organic raw materials that are readily available to reduce carbon footprint. Incorporate recycled or upcycled materials to reduce waste and consumption of natural resources. Consider using eco-friendly plastics for furniture as opposed to wood or harmful plastics.

Manufacturing Processes

As an eco-friendly business, use renewable energy (i.e. solar panels, wind turbines, or hydroelectricity)  to fully power factories and employ energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Also, reduce the use of toxic chemicals found in surface finishings, adhesives, stains, and other treatments that are harmful to the environment.

Eco-friendly Packaging

Making the furniture industry sustainable continues after the materials used and manufacturing processes. In addition, as we talk about eco-friendly plastics for furniture, businesses look for alternative packaging to plastic. Traditional single-use plastics such as styrofoam and bubble wrap harm the environment and contradict the goal of reducing its carbon footprint.

Oikos Sustainable Solutions offers biodegradable packaging for businesses. Our cassava starch bags and cornstarch bags are 0% plastic and 100% compostable. Moreover, it can naturally biodegrade in 3 to 6 months in any environment. Finally, view our product catalog here to find your eco-friendly packaging needs.