Fabric and the Environment

Environmental issues are very real, and everything we do has some kind of impact on the environment, so where does upholstery fit in? 

There are many parts of an upholstery project which can have an environmental impact, from foam, glue, webbing, wood and fabric. 

WoJo fabric in 'action'

Lets talk about fabric.

We are lucky in New Zealand, we have fantastic options such as The Formary. They are known for their using industrial waste and turning it into some other usable product. In one case they've created a fabric called WoJo which is a textile created from Starbucks coffee sacks mixed with New Zealand wool. The end result is a unique fabric that is easy on the environment and fantastic to use. UFO were lucky enough to be involved in using this product for the first time in New Zealand.

Demand is growing internationally for environmentally respectful fabrics. There are many choices available throughout the world, that are not only eco-friendly during production, but are high quality, durable and great to look at. It is absolutely possible to upholster your project(s) in a manner that creates the desired outcome - looking fantastic and durable, as well as being environmentally conscious.

Most of the 'green' fabrics are sensitive in every sense - the energy, water and chemicals used during the manufacturing process. There are some fabrics out there such as Bella-Dura that "at the end of it's long and useful life, the product can be converted into other products such as automotive parts, truck liners and plant containers". Now that is thinking long term.

Using environmentally friendly products can be a great marketing tool for your business. Starbucks used the WoJo product to great acclaim.

When upholstering or reupholstery within your business, there are many issues you need to think about, and fabric choice is one of them.

If you have questions about which fabric choice to select, please give us a call and we will be happy to talk with you about the options. 0800 698 746