The Future of Furniture: Sustainable Materials That Are Changing the Industry
The furniture industry is one of the largest yet overlooked contributors to global warming and carbon emissions. From deforestation to energy-intensive manufacturing processes to the widespread use of synthetic materials and toxic chemicals, conventional furniture production has a big impact on the environment. Many mass-produced furniture pieces contain harmful substances like formaldehyde and flame retardants, which has a negative impact on indoor air quality and human health. As consumers become more conscious of environmental sustainability and the health risks of these materials, the demand for safer and more sustainable furniture is rising. The industry is beginning to shift towards sustainable alternatives such as using reclaimed wood, recycled materials and plant-based materials. In this guide, we will explore the most promising sustainable materials transforming the furniture industry and how they are helping to create a more eco-friendly and health-conscious way of living.
What is formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is a strong-smelling gas that is widely used in furniture manufacturing, particularly in adhesives, resins and coatings. It is a common ingredient in pressed wood products like plywood and MDF, which can often be found in furniture. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even an increased risk of certain cancers.
Biobased Furniture
How to identify and avoid formaldehyde in furniture?
One way to avoid formaldehyde in furniture is to avoid furniture made from pressed wood like plywood or MDF and alternatively choose solid wood, bamboo or reclaimed wood. Choose water-based or VOC-free finishes over harsh chemical coatings, and if you purchase new furniture that may contain formaldehyde, allow it to off-gas in a well-ventilated area before bringing it indoors. Alternatively, you can choose furniture made from natural materials.
What are flame retardants?
Flame retardants are chemical additives used in furniture, textiles, electronics, and building materials to reduce flammability and slow down the spread of fire. They are commonly found in sofas, mattresses, carpets, and upholstered furniture, especially those made with polyurethane foam. While these chemicals were initially introduced to improve fire safety, research has shown that many flame retardants pose serious health and environmental risks.
Alternatives to flame-retardant polyurethane foam
As concerns grow over the health risks of flame retardant chemicals on polyurethane foam, many consumers and manufacturers are seeking safer alternatives. There are several natural and non-toxic materials that provide durability, comfort and fire resistance. Organic wool is a naturally fire-resistant material due to its high nitrogen and water content, which makes it slow to ignite and self-extinguishing. This makes wool an excellent choice for mattresses, cushions, and upholstery without the need for harmful chemical flame retardants. Additionally, wool provides natural temperature regulation, keeping furniture breathable and comfortable in both warm and cool climates. Historically, wool was widely used for furniture padding and bedding before the introduction of synthetic foams and chemical treatments. In traditional craftsmanship, wool was valued for its durability, resilience, and ability to wick moisture, making it a practical and long-lasting material. Today, with a growing shift toward sustainable and non-toxic furniture, wool is making a comeback as a safe and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials.
So, what are some alternative materials for sustainable furniture?
Reclaimed wood
Reclaimed wood
Reclaimed wood is one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in furniture making. Instead of cutting down new trees, we repurpose wood from old wooden houses and structures, giving it a second life as high-quality furniture and joinery pieces. This process not only reduces deforestation but also preserves the unique character, texture, and durability of aged wood. Each piece of reclaimed wood we use is carved by hand, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike. Handcrafting allows us to highlight the natural grain patterns, textures, and imperfections that give reclaimed wood its charm and authenticity.
Cork
Cork is an incredibly versatile, renewable, and eco-friendly material that is transforming sustainable furniture design. We use expanded cork to craft our furniture, ensuring that every piece is 100% natural, free from additives, glues, or resins. As the cork is manufactured by steaming, it expands and glue itself together. By choosing cork, we embrace a material that is not only biodegradable and recyclable but also highly durable and aesthetically unique.
Mycelium
Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is an innovative and fully biodegradable material that is revolutionising sustainable furniture design. We use mycelium to craft eco-friendly, durable, and naturally compostable furniture, ensuring that each piece is not only beautiful but also leaves no waste behind. We cultivate mycelium by allowing it to grow into custom moulds, shaping it into chairs, tables, and upholstery bases. Once fully formed, the material is dried to halt further growth, creating a sturdy yet biodegradable structure. To add comfort and fire resistance, we use wool padding before finishing the piece with natural, eco-friendly upholstery fabrics.
Plant Waste
Plant waste is an innovative, fully plant-based material that is shaping the future of eco-friendly furniture. We use a 3D spraying technique to craft furniture pieces from this unique pulp, allowing us to create designs that are lightweight, sturdy, and 100% natural—all without the use of synthetic resins or harmful chemicals. This process allows us to shape intricate, sturdy forms while minimising material waste. The finished furniture is strong, smooth, and naturally beautiful, reflecting a new era of sustainable craftsmanship.
Inspire conscious consumerism
Every choice we make as consumers influences the future of our planet. By choosing furniture made from sustainable materials, we reduce waste, minimize our carbon footprint, and support ethical craftsmanship. At Materials Assemble, we are proud to be part of this movement, creating furniture that respects both nature and design. Browse our collection and become part of the change toward a more sustainable lifestyle.
