The furniture sector is among those that have the greatest impact on the environment due to the extraction of wood and other natural resources used in its production. However, adopting sustainable practices, such as use of ecological materialshas transformed this reality. According to data from the Brazil Tree Industry (IBÁ), approximately 91% of the wood used by the sector comes from approximately 10 million hectares of forests planted in Brazil.
With this in mind, Casoca has prepared this article to explain how sustainable plantations and other innovative initiatives they are revolutionizing furniture production, bringing benefits not only to the planet, but also to society and the economy.
The importance of sustainable production for the furniture sector
Sustainability has long ceased to be an optional choice and has become a necessity in practically all economic sectors. In the furniture sector it is no different, especially because Wood is one of the main raw materials used in production.
Illegal deforestation, combined with conventional logging, is one of the great environmental villains that, in addition to destroying habitats and threatening biodiversity, intensifies climate change. It is therefore essential to adopt a sustainable approach in the sector, reducing impacts through more ethical and conscious processes.
Sustainable production also meets the expectations of more modern consumers, who are increasingly numerous pay attention to the origin of the products that they consume. A survey conducted by the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) in 2023 revealed that 81% of Brazilians always or occasionally adopt sustainable habits.
Based on data like this, many companies have embraced sustainability, gaining greater credibility with their target audiences. This movement creates a virtuous cycle that benefits everyone involved while strengthening brand loyalty.
The most used materials for the production of sustainable furniture
The choice of materials is one of the pillars of the production of sustainably made furniture. After all, investing in renewable and low environmental impact options It is essential to align design with commitment to the planet.
Certified wood, such as those with the FSC seal, guarantees that the extraction followed rigorous sustainability criteria. These materials come from areas where responsible practices preserve soil health, biodiversity and local communities.
Other materials that are gaining importance in the sustainable furniture market are:
- Bamboo: In addition to being highly renewable, bamboo is durable, lightweight and strong, making it a versatile alternative for furniture and finishes.
- Recycled boards: Materials like MDF or OSB made from recycled fibers reduce industrial waste and use waste that would otherwise be discarded.
- The recycled year: Using recycled aluminum or steel reduces mineral extraction, preserving natural resources and reducing the energy required for production.
However, while eco-friendly materials offer environmental and social benefits, alternatives such as petroleum-based plastics or illegally harvested wood generate significant negative impacts. According to a 2023 MapBiomas analysis, 93% of deforestation in Brazil showed at least a hint of illegality in the extraction process.
Therefore, it is essential avoid using non-certified productsas high production demand can intensify deforestation, increase carbon emissions and perpetuate abusive labor practices.
The use of planted forests in furniture production
A practical and scalable solution to address sustainability challenges in the furniture industry is the use of planted forests. These areas, grown specifically for industrial productionthey are alternatives that help the process of environmental responsibility.
Therefore, forests intended for growing trees for industrial purposes, such as paper and cellulose production, are also used in furniture production.
Unlike native forests, these areas are designed to meet the demand for wood without impacting natural ecosystems. Therefore, species such as eucalyptus, pine and teak are more widely used as they have a faster growth rate and adapt to different environmental conditions.
In addition to meeting the growing market demand, we have planted forests help reduce pressure on native forestsprotecting vital ecosystems.
About Casoca