Tip: How to Choose Eco-friendly Furniture

There are many ways to go green. In fact, as consumers,we are at the most strategic position. What we consume and demand frommanufacturers – today and for the coming years could affect how our planet willhold out in the future.
If you think that buying furniture does not strike aclear and direct connection with the environment, then think again. Furniturenot only uses valuable raw materials but its manufacture requires energyresources as well. However, top quality furniture are durable and made to lastand in contrast, cheap pieces made from plywood or wood fibre are not meant tolast for more than three years. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) stated that disposable furniture is putting an additional strain onlandfills.
What’s a homeowner and fledgling interior designer to do?We can’t leave our living spaces cold and barren. We love style, we lovefashion, but we also believe in making use of what we have. So, for the sake ofthe planet and us, as a species, we’ve put together tips in buying eco-friendlyfurniture.
· Visit second hand shops. We’re a hundredpercent sure that you will find pieces that will match your decorating tastes.Sometimes, second hand shops yield more fascinating items than mainstreamstores. It’s an adventure and in somewhere in the bric-a-brac, you might find agrand art-deco mirror or a fainting couch. On the other hand, if rummagingthrough old furniture does not appeal to you, then try sites such as Craigslistor EBay. Words of caution though, make sure you are dealing with a trustworthyseller.

· Look for theForest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) seal of approval. If the diamondindustry has strong rules regarding the ethical procurement of its stones, thefurniture industry has standards set by the FSC. This internationalorganization sees through every step of wood processing: from forests toconsumers. The FSC not only promotes sustainability but it also ensures thatthe rights of indigenous cultures are protected.

· Consider hardwood alternatives. Redwood andother hardwood species are exquisite indeed and unfortunately, they are verydifficult to replace. Instead, go for hardwood alternatives such as cork,bamboo, and plastic-wood composites.
And finally, if you arebuying new, purchase furniture from a reputable company. As we saidearlier, high quality furniture, if cared for properly, will last for decades –if not ages. If we’re going to dosomething for the planet, then not adding more to the rubbish heap is afantastic step forward.