Sustainability is not just a buzzword but a necessity in today's production world. One of the most crucial phases to ensure sustainability is the design phase
It is here that the choices made can have a long-lasting impact on the environment. A concrete example of this is the upholstery of furniture and how it affects the waste percentage during production.
Focus on textile: At KVIST, 5 tons of textile material are disposed of annually. The disposal alone emits 6.9 tons of CO2e - and that is solely from the disposal process!
When designing furniture, the choice of upholstery materials and methods is crucial to minimizing waste. By selecting materials that can be optimally utilized and designing furniture that requires less cutting and adjustment, the amount of waste can be significantly reduced.
Additionally, incorporating patchwork and quilting techniques can further reduce textile waste. Patchwork involves sewing together small pieces of fabric to create a larger design, which not only utilizes leftover materials but also adds a unique and artistic touch to the furniture.
Selecting the right quality of the upholstery materials also plays a significant role. Materials with high durability and long lifespan mean that the furniture does not need to be replaced as often, which again reduces the need for new production and thus also waste. By choosing materials that are easy to maintain and repair, the lifespan of the furniture can be further extended, contributing to a more sustainable production.