Whether you’re looking to relax on a reclaimed timber armchair or hosting an outdoor dinner party around a 100% recyclable outdoor dining table – there are sustainable outdoor furniture brands for everyone.
How do we choose the right sustainable outdoor furniture and avoid greenwashing? Let’s look at some areas to consider.
WHAT MAKES AN OUTDOOR FURNITURE COMPANY SUSTAINABLE?
- 100% recyclable products or products that you can return to them to recycle.
- Sustainably run manufacturing and production facilities.
- Transparency in their manufacturing processes.
- Corporate responsibility.
WHAT MATERIALS SHOULD I BUY?
- Locally manufactured furniture where possible
- Natural or recycled materials
- Post-consumer recycled materials
- Easily recyclable at its end of life
- FSC certified timbers
- Locally sourced timbers
- Highly durable. You should invest in something which will last for many years to come
I’ve compiled a whole swag of sustainable brands using reclaimed, recycled or responsibly sourced materials which not only look good but are good for the environment.
HERE ARE SOME OF MY FAVOURITE FURNITURE OPTIONS
1. MARK TUCKEY
Using recycled and sustainably managed timbers, all of their furniture is crafted with integrity, simplicity and strength. Made in Australia, Mark Tuckey create both indoor and outdoor furniture, with all pieces celebrating their love of timber. Designed to stand the test of time, their furniture will become a highly coveted heirloom piece within your home.
2. KOSKELA
Koskela are a certified B Corporation whose products are designed and made in Australia. Many of their pieces are GECA certified and they have a 10 year partnership with Rainforest Rescue which has led to the protection of a hectare of the Daintree Rainforest and the planting of thousands of native Australian trees. Their entire outdoor range is gorgeous but I couldn’t resist their bestselling bean bags because they can be used both indoors and out.
3. JARDAN
Jardan use FSC and PEFC certified timbers plus the textiles they use are OEKO-TEX and GOTS certified, so you can be assured that you’re buying something which is both stunning and sustainable. This Australian company is also carbon neutral, which means they’ve reduced their net greenhouse gas emissions to zero.
4. LOLL DESIGNS
All of Loll Designs outdoor furniture is made in the US with recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE), one of the most commonly used plastics. Loll’s recycled material is sourced primarily from single-use milk jug containers. With over 85% of their product line achieving Cradle to Cradle certification, they aim to play a role in a circular economy where plastics made will be recycled continuously, thus reducing waste. All Loll products can be recycled at the end of its life.
5. VIVA TERRA
Based in the US, Viva Terra works with artisans and fair trade organisations all over the world to curate a collection of eco friendly products for every area of your home and garden. Their timber pieces are hand crafted using FSC certified and reclaimed timber. Loved for their unique appeal, they also have products made from recycled glass, vintage fabrics or salvaged metal.