Rick has been actively researching materials and their contributions to circular and usable furniture for many years.
His explanations were more than enlightening. With the help of images, facts, and clear graphs, he illustrates how we can make sustainable choices in material usage.
An important message is the significance of controlling raw materials. With a graph, Rick shows that we (humans) are on a fast track to depleting the Earth by continuously mining raw materials. "One day, it will be gone, and there will be hardly any new sources available. Then we must look for alternatives." By reusing or recycling materials, we can take a significant step toward a more sustainable future.
How can we gain control over these materials?
Rick guided us through his research and the facts he has compiled. Because, alongside the polluting impact and CO2 emissions required to produce the material, we also consider the lifespan and whether it can be recycled.
He made it clear that we often still react based on gut feelings rather than facts. A good example is the biobased material bamboo. This is often perceived as more sustainable than particleboard. But is that really the case? Biobased materials are usually processed in such a way that recycling after their lifecycle is difficult. There is a high chance that bamboo board materials will end up in the incinerator, while particleboard, even with melamine, is recyclable and can be used for new board material.
Rick's conclusion is that we can label materials based on longer lifespan or at the material level. But the best approach is to take both into account, as all products will eventually reach the end of their usable life, preferably later rather than sooner.
The expansion of our material knowledge aligns well with Redie's Green Goals. We are eager to learn and want to contribute to the sustainability of our sector. We do this not alone, but together with our industry and suppliers. An example of this is the separation of various wood types so that they can be used in recycled board material.
Are you looking for a sustainable interior? We are ready to help you apply the right options in your interior. We hope to have Rick's book in our hands early next year, which we can use as a guide to help you make the right material choices. For now, we are doing this digitally.
