Journey to Net Zero: Pioneering Sustainability in Furniture Design
Picture this: a world where furniture isn’t just functional—it’s a force for positive change. Enter Steelcase, the furniture manufacturer committed to fighting climate change. Their recent announcement— “Our Path to Net-Zero”—is more than a plan; it’s a path forward for a greener future.
Steelcase aims to achieve a net-zero future by reducing its carbon emissions by over 90% throughout their entire value chain by 2050. By 2030, Steelcase will be on track to reduce their own operational carbon emissions by 50%, putting them on the path to net zero!
Steelcase’s strategic focus centers on prioritizing product design, refining manufacturing processes, and optimizing delivery methods to maximize impact. By addressing both direct and indirect sources of carbon emissions across their value chain, Steelcase is committed to reducing their environmental footprint. Specifically, they are actively working to decrease carbon emissions in three key areas of their business:
- Products: Accounting for 66% of their carbon emissions
- Operations: Responsible for 18% of their carbon emissions
- Transportation: Contributing 16% of their carbon emissions
Keep reading to learn more about the actionable steps driving change in each of these areas.
1. Products
Steelcase aims to decrease these emissions by minimizing embodied carbon in products, adopting responsible material choices, and designing for circularity.
Check out the new Steelcase Flex Perch Stool that is 100% recyclable and created from waste instead of fossil fuels.
2. Operations
Steelcase is strategically investing in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and waste reduction within their operations to meet both the 2030 carbon reduction goals and the 2050 net-zero target.
Check out the Steelcase Everwall, a modular, prefabricated wall system designed with the principles of reducing waste on site, reusing materials and recyclability.
3. Transportation
Steelcase is embarking on a transformative journey to revamp their distribution, delivery, travel, and commuting practices—aiming to significantly curb carbon emissions along the way.
Check out the Steelcase Think Chair, designed with minimal parts for effortless disassembly, Think can be taken apart in just five minutes for recycling.
