Kim Davis
Sun
Wouldn’t it be nice if we didn’t have to stop and question whether or not the products we buy are responsibly made and sustainable? What if products that protected human and environmental health were just the way things were done?
An idyllic situation perhaps, but fortunately, more and more people are starting to realize that the simple choices they make every day — and not just during holiday binges or large undertakings like a home renovation — can have far-reaching effects on such things as global warming, deforestation and social equity.
Unfortunately, being an eco-savvy consumer can prove challenging.
There is no one-stop shopping, no Canadian Superstore for the sustainably minded here in Canada. Also, few people have the time to wade through the ever increasing (and often conflicting) volumes of information about the who, what and where of sustainable products. While there are a growing number of online resources and product-certification programs, when it comes to many housewares, including furniture, the onus is still on the individual to ask the discerning questions.
So after considering the most important question of all, do I need it, what should the socially and eco-minded be asking?
I contacted Grant Wyllychuk, a designer and the owner of Ornamentum, a Vancouver manufacturer of sustainable furniture, and Shelley Penner, principal of Penner & Associates, a leading green interior design firm in Western Canada, to help me create a checklist. At the risk of overly simplifying what are complex issues in their own right, consumers looking to be savvy, chic and sustainable should ask the following questions while shopping for an item:
What is it made of?
One of the most important issues when considering furniture and other housewares is materials. Pieces that utilize salvaged or recycled supplies not only reduce the need for virgin materials, they also keep valuable resources out of the waste stream. If the product uses virgin materials, however, ensure that they originated from sustainable sources, and wherever applicable are third-party certified by such organizations as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Avoid using materials, such as vinyl, that have negative environmental impacts in their production and/or disposal.
How is it finished?
A whole host of adhesives and finishing products go into the making of housewares. Unfortunately, many conventional brands contain formaldehyde, VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and other toxic chemicals, that while designed to expedite drying times, improve longevity, etc., also contribute to indoor air pollution. Be wary of products that claim to be eco-friendly on the grounds that they are water-based. As Wyllychuk points out, water-based doesn’t necessarily mean eco-friendly. Look for low- and no-VOC options.
Where was it made?
Whenever possible buy local. This not only supports local businesses and economies, it also helps conserve the energy used to transport products long distances. As Penner points out, “you may also be able to find something more unique that cannot be found anywhere else.”
Who made it?
Unfortunately, sweatshops and child labour are a growing problem, particularly in developing nations that desperately need foreign investment. Furthermore, unlike the Fair Trade Federation, which helps ensure that farmers and artisans throughout the developing world receive a fair price for their products, no overarching “sweatshop-free” label exists. “Be wary of exceptionally low prices,” Penner says. “Your bargain may well mean someone else is paying the price.”
What is required to use it?
Fortunately, water and energy conservation has come to the forefront of many manufacturers’ priority list. With such a rapidly growing number of options (both in cost and performance), water and energy efficiency labels and ratings are quickly becoming the status quo. Also, it is only a matter of time before water becomes metered. Planning ahead now will ultimately save both water and money. Look for labels like Energy Star, Energuide, and low-flow.
How long will it last?
Both Wyllychuk and Penner emphasize the importance of choosing products with longevity of use in mind. As Penner says, “buy less and buy better.” Consider the cost of the item over its lifespan as in the case of compact fluorescent bulbs. While they cost significantly more than dollar store incandescent ones, not only do they save you money in their use, but they also last for years.
Where does it go?
As designers and the general public become more aware of the need to keep materials in the loop and out of the garbage as long as possible, an increasing number of products are being designed for easy disassembly, reuse, recycling, and lastly safe disposal (biodegradable). Be aware though, that just because something can be recycled doesn’t mean YOU can actually recycle it. For example, some carpets are being touted as recyclable, but there are only a handful of facilities in the world that can do this. It is also important to dispose of old products responsibly. The Recycling Council of B.C. can provide advice, as well as help connect unwanted items with people who need them.
For more information on responsible shopping, the following are just a few of the resources available:
Co-op America, coopamerica.org/
Environmental Choice Program, environmentalchoice.com
GVRD BuildSmart, gvrd.bc.ca/buildsmart/
© The Vancouver Sun 2005