A short thought piece on sustainability in the furniture making industry and what other makers can do to help.
The bespoke furniture making industry has come a long way in terms of sustainability. A few decades ago, the idea of sustainable furniture was more often than not an afterthought - if even that. Nowadays, however, the emphasis is firmly placed on creating and improving upon sustainable practices in this niche market.
There are various ways to ensure that furniture is sustainably and ethically sourced. The most important of these is to use only materials from reputable sources, such as FSC certified wood. This ensures that the timber used in the furniture's construction has been logged responsibly, with due consideration for environmental impact. Additionally, careful consideration must be given to all other materials used - such as glues, finishes and plastics - to ensure they are of a high standard.
Beyond this, there is also the possibility of reusing materials to create new pieces of furniture or incorporating upcycled elements into existing designs. This can help reduce waste and give older items a new life, while still ensuring that all relevant standards are met.
Finally, bespoke furniture makers must consider their own production processes to ensure that they are as sustainable as possible. This could include the use of solar panels and energy efficient lighting, or even simply switching off all non-essential equipment when not in use. By making these small changes, big strides can be made towards a more sustainable future for the bespoke furniture making industry.
In conclusion, sustainability must be made a priority in the bespoke furniture making industry. By carefully selecting materials and ensuring that production processes are as eco-friendly as possible, bespoke furniture makers can ensure that their business practices are helping to promote environmental consciousness and reduce waste. With these steps taken, it won’t be long before bespoke furniture making is a truly sustainable industry.