EN
Select location and language
Select location
Ubicación global
ACTIU Berbegal y Formas, S.A.
Sustainable materials: the key to responsible and efficient design

Sustainable materials: the key to responsible and efficient design

MARCH 2025 | 2 minutes

Sustainability has gone from being an option to an urgent necessity in the design and construction of spaces. Choosing sustainable materials not only reduces environmental impact, but also brings economic benefits and improves product lifecycle efficiency.

In this article, we explore what sustainable materials are, their benefits and how they can be applied in furniture and space design.

What are sustainable materials?

Sustainable materials are those that minimise their environmental impact throughout their life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials to their reuse or recycling. They are characterised by:

  • Reduced consumption of natural resources.
  • Low carbon footprint in their production and transport.
  • Durability and recyclability, avoiding unnecessary waste.
  • Energy efficiency, such as thermal insulation in buildings.

Materials such as certified wood, recycled glass and reused plastics are revolutionising sectors such as architecture, construction and furniture design.

Benefits of using sustainable materials

The use of environmentally friendly materials not only has a positive impact on the environment, but also offers economic and functional advantages. Some of the main benefits include:

  • Lower environmental impact: Reduced CO₂ emissions and lower resource consumption.
  • Increased energy efficiency: Materials with thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
  • Durability and reduced maintenance: Less replacements and long-term waste.
  • Sustainability certifications: Compliance with standards such as LEED, WELL and LEVEL, ensuring the environmental quality of the spaces.

Sustainable materials in space furnishings: which are the most efficient?

Sustainable furniture uses materials that reduce their negative impact on the environment and prolong their life cycle. Among the most prominent are:

Certified wood: beyond natural

Wood from responsibly managed forests ensures less environmental impact and promotes the regeneration of ecosystems. In addition, derivatives such as MDF and plywood can include recycled fibres.

Recyclable steel: resilience that is born anew

Steel is a material with a long service life and high recyclability, making it a robust and sustainable alternative.

Recycled Plastics: A Second Life for Waste

Polypropylene and other recycled plastics prevent the accumulation of waste and reduce dependence on oil. They are versatile materials that can be reused in numerous furniture applications.

Recyclable aluminium: the infinite metal

Aluminium has a recyclability rate of more than 90 %, keeping its properties intact in every reuse process.

Recyclable glass: ecological transparency

Glass is 100% recyclable and its use in furniture and architectural spaces improves energy efficiency by optimising the entry of natural light.

How do you ensure that the materials you buy are sustainable?

If you are looking to incorporate sustainable materials into your projects, consider these criteria:

✔ Recognised certifications: Look for seals such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood or Cradle to Cradle for reduced impact products.
✔ Supplier information: Make sure materials come from responsible sources.
Material life cycle: Assess recyclability and durability.
✔ Energy efficiency and thermal insulation: Additional benefits in energy consumption.

In conclusion, the use of sustainable materials is key to the construction of responsible and efficient spaces. The combination of innovative design, recyclable materials and sustainable production processes allows for a reduced environmental footprint without compromising quality or aesthetics.