There has been a rise of sustainable products available in the ergonomic market, and an increasing number of individuals and companies factoring sustainability into their office furniture picks, we thought it’s a good time to highlight ways to make your workspace more eco-friendly while still prioritising comfort and productivity.
The Link Between Sustainability and Ergonomics
Sustainability encompasses many things within ergonomic equipment including what items are made from, their manufacturing process and their durability. By investing in sustainable ergonomic products, it can minimise the need for replacements. This in turn can help to reduce the overall waste produced by disposable office furniture.
Many organisations are striving to reduce their environmental impact. Choosing sustainable office furniture is a simple yet effective way to align with those objectives as can achieve multiple goals: promoting a healthier, more productive workforce while also reducing their ecological impact.
Examples of Sustainable Ergonomic Products:
Several manufacturers are leading the change in creating sustainable ergonomic furniture that combines comfort, style, and eco-conscious design. Here are a few standout examples:
1. Do Better Chair by Orangebox
Orangebox’s Do Better Chair is a perfect example of how ergonomics and sustainability can be seamlessly integrated. The Do Better Chair is made from 58% recycled materials and it’s 98% recyclable, with a new production process reducing its carbon footprint by 40%.
The modular design of the Do Better Chair ensures that it is easy to repair or upgrade, extending its lifespan and reducing the need for replacements.
It’s also easy to adjust and more intuitive to use from an ergonomic standpoint. This is because user adjustments are possible without relying on lots of levers and knobs.
2. Drumback Creation by Viasit
The Drumback Creation by Viasit is another ergonomic triumph with sustainability at its core.
This chair is 99.99% recyclable and is made from 55.95% recycled content.
Its innovative design takes inspiration from a drum, with a breathable mesh backrest stretched over a solid shell. You can easily adapt the Drumback to suit your preferences, with height and width adjustable arms, as well as seat depth and tilt adjustments. The Drumback Creation reflects a commitment to environmentally conscious design, without compromising on style or functionality.
3. HQ Electric Sit Stand Desk
When it comes to sustainable sit-stand desks, the HQ Electric Sit Stand Desk is a standout ergonomic option. This desk is WEEE certified, meaning it can be responsibly recycled when no longer required.
The frame is Global Green Tag Certified – which is one of the worlds most robust, trusted and widely recognised ecolabels. This certification demonstrates that the highest environmental standards are being followed in the desks manufacturing process.
The desks are available in a wide range of sizes, frames and finishes, so can fit into any office to reduce the risk of prolonged sitting.
Other Ways to Support Sustainability Within Ergonomics
While choosing sustainable products is a significant step in promoting sustainability in ergonomics, there are other practical ways to make your workspace more sustainable.
1. Recycling Unused/ Old Chairs Through Sustain (Senator Recycling Scheme)
We offer a recycling service for old office chairs through the Senator Recycling Scheme, Sustain. If you have unused, old or broken office chairs, this initiative could benefit you. Sustain disassembles and recycles chairs – reusing materials rather than sending them to landfills.
By taking part in this initiative through us, you can help reduce waste and support the circular economy. It is an excellent choice for companies looking to align with sustainability goals, and Sustain can also provide a compliance and traceability report on recycling.
If you’d like more information about our recycling schemes please get in touch on either 0330 332 0880 or enquiries@posturepeole.co.uk
2. Use Sustainable Fabrics on Bespoke Chairs (Camira Quest / Oceanic)
When customizing ergonomic chairs, consider using fabrics that are both high-quality and sustainable. Camira Quest is made from 100% recycled polyester and 75% SEAQUAL yarn.
Camira Oceanic, which is made from 100% recycled polyester and marine waste SEAQUAL yarn, a high quality 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn containing plastic from marine litter. These fabrics are a perfect example of how you can make a bespoke ergonomic chair more sustainable.
3. Replace Broken Parts Rather Than the Whole Chair
Instead of replacing an entire chair when parts break, consider opting for repairs and replacements of individual components. Repairing or replacing specific parts of many ergonomic chairs (such as armrests, lumbar support and seat cushions) is possible if they are modular, instead of disposing the entire chair. This not only reduces waste but also saves money in the long run, making it a cost-effective and sustainable choice.
Final Thoughts
Sustainability in ergonomics is about more than just using eco-friendly materials—it’s about using durable products that improve both human health and the health of our planet.
By choosing sustainable ergonomic furniture, you can reduce your environmental impact, support sustainability goals, and create comfortable, productive workspaces that stand the test of time.
Get in touch with us to see how we can help your workplace furniture become more sustainable! Enquire today by calling 0330 332 0880 or alternatively email us at enquiries@posturepeople.co.uk
