Creating a stylish and comfortable outdoor space in an urban environment no longer requires compromising your environmental values. A new generation of brands is dedicated to producing high-quality, durable, and beautiful outdoor furniture with a strong focus on sustainability. These companies are leading the way by using recycled materials, responsibly sourced wood, and innovative, eco-conscious production methods. For the urban dweller looking to make a green choice, here are some of the most commendable eco-friendly brands.
1. Loll Designs: Famous for its vibrant and modern furniture, Loll Designs operates with a deep commitment to the environment. Their entire product line is made from 100% recycled post-consumer plastic, primarily milk jugs, which are diverted from landfills. The company also utilizes renewable energy in its manufacturing processes and focuses on creating durable products designed to last for decades, reducing the need for replacement.
2. Fermob: A French brand known for its colorful and elegant bistro sets, Fermob combines timeless design with environmental responsibility. They have a strong "Eco-Design" policy, which includes using recycled aluminum for their frames and powder-coat paint finishes that are non-toxic and reduce VOC emissions. Fermob furniture is built for longevity and is 99% recyclable at the end of its very long life.
3. Vestre: A Norwegian furniture manufacturer that is a pioneer in sustainability. Vestre's mission is to create the world's most sustainable furniture, and they are transparent about their entire supply chain. They use only renewable energy and recycled or FSC-certified wood and steel. Their products are designed for easy repair and disassembly, promoting a true circular economy.
4. Polywood: This brand specializes in creating classic outdoor furniture from a unique material: recycled plastic lumber. By using recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) from items like shampoo and detergent bottles, POLYwood gives plastic waste a new life. The resulting furniture is heavy-duty, weather-resistant, and requires no painting, staining, or waterproofing, minimizing its lifetime environmental impact.
When selecting eco-friendly urban outdoor furniture, look for certifications like FSC for wood and evidence of a closed-loop manufacturing system. By choosing brands that prioritize the planet, you can create an outdoor oasis that is not only an extension of your home but also a testament to a sustainable lifestyle.