What are the gains and how can we apply circular economy in office design?

When envisioning your office’s future, consider embracing a circular economic approach. This strategic mindset revolves around maximising resource efficiency, minimising waste, and reducing the need for raw materials. But it’s not just about environmental impact—it’s a smart business move that yields financial gains and fosters positive social outcomes.

What Is the Circular Economy? Think of it as a system where responsible production and consumption intersect. Within this framework, resources remain within the ecosystem, avoiding unnecessary waste.

It has its roots in the British textile industry in the 19th century, but it was not until the 1970s, thanks to Dr Walter Stahel, considered the founding father of circular economy, that it started to gain momentum. In his paper, “the Product-Life Factor”, he argued that extending the product life of goods is the common way towards a sustainable economy. In March 2020, the European Union adopted a new circular economy action plan CEAP. This action plan is one of the building blocks of the European Green Deal and of most urgent importance if we are to achieve EU’s climate neutrality target for 2050.

Adopting a circular economy approach in selecting office furniture or designing office spaces offers multiple benefits, including improved finances, enhanced social outcomes, and a substantial positive impact on the environment.

Environmental gain

Embracing circular design principles contributes to resource conservation and reduces the environmental footprint typically linked to conventional linear economic models.

Financial gain

Reusing furniture in office settings can offer several financial gains, contributing to cost savings and overall economic benefits. Both refurbishing existing furniture or purchasing second-life furniture, may have a lower initial cost in comparison to buying new items. Some countries such as Sweden, Germany or the Netherlands offer tax incentives for companies that invest in eco-friendly practices, including sustainable office furniture. Some cities and regions as well have additional incentives. It is worth investigating if you can potentially benefit from tax advantages by embracing eco-friendly initiatives.

Social gain

Companies that showcase a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship can enhance their brand image and reputation. You are also more likely to attract potential employees, particularly those who value working for socially responsible organisations.

What can you do to implement circular economy when planning for furniture and material in your office space?

Reuse

If your existing office furniture appears outdated or worn, consider refurbishing it. Several key players in the furniture industry offer professional cleaning, refurbishment, and product upgrades for items they’ve already sold. Additionally, take-back programs allow you to return old furniture, which is then cleaned, updated, and refurbished for a second life, ready to be resold. Another option is to reach out to companies such as Workbrands who specialise in creating sustainable workplaces. They assess the furniture you currently have, evaluate what can be refurbished and identify what needs supplementing from their stock of second-life furniture. This approach ensures both environmental responsibility and cost-effectiveness

Choose office furniture and materials that are designed to last

Investing in durable office furniture pays off in the long run. If you opt for to buy new furniture, choose those of good quality. The initial investment will be more substantial, but your furniture will last longer, and have a larger likelihood of second-life, in comparison to purchasing lower-quality furniture. It is also of importance to chose brands that have a strong environmental compass and a clear strategy on how to implement their sustainability goals. A great example is the Danish carpet manufacturer, Ege Carpets. Today, only a small fraction (1-3%) of carpets in Europe are recycled. They introduced Ege Circleback, a take-back program to recycle and reuse used carpets. When installing a carpet from this program, you can reduce its end-of-life CO2 emission with as much as 60%.

Rent your office furniture

Leasing furniture significantly reduces the demand for new furniture and is therefor in line with sustainable thinking and circular economy. Purchasing furniture is one of the larger expenditures when moving in to a new office space. Opting for rented furniture not only reduces this financial burden but also minimizes the demand for new resources. Select a provider that offers high-quality furniture, to ensure longevity and ease of maintenance, service and update when necessary.

The shift towards circularity is essential for addressing environmental concerns and creating a more sustainable future. By favouring companies who strive to create durable design, select responsible material, and initiate innovative reuse and recycling programs, we take part in creating a more sustainable and circular future. Embracing these principles not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the creation of workspaces that align with the values of modern businesses.

Tip!

When seeking visionary companies committed to a sustainable future, check out the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. They’re not just certifying manufacturers; they promote a world where products are healthy, equitable, and sustainable. Explore their impact on LinkedIn and join the movement toward a brighter tomorrow!

Reach out to us at PetersPetersson if you’re interested in exploring how we can assist with your upcoming sustainable office renovation.