Majority of UK Furniture Companies Prioritise Environmental Concerns, Yet Challenges Persist, Reveals BFC's Industry Survey.
The British Furniture Confederation (BFC) has undertaken a comprehensive survey of the UK's furniture industry, shedding light on the sector's dedication to sustainability. The survey, with responses from 66 industry participants, uncovered both encouraging strides and existing challenges within the landscape.
Key Findings:
1. Sustainability as a Priority:
- Two-thirds of respondents acknowledged sustainability as a 'top three' management priority.
- However, one-third did not consider sustainability among their top concerns.
2. ISO 14001 Accreditation:
- 44% of surveyed companies are accredited to ISO 14001.
- 46% are not accredited, while 10% were unaware of the standard.
3. Awareness of Sustainability Initiatives:
- Only 24% have adopted any of the UN 17 sustainability goals.
- 23% are not aware of these goals.
- 36% have signed up for green pledges, citing various initiatives such as the SME Climate Hub and the Prince of Wales’s Terra Carta.
4. Challenges and Assistance:
- 62% expressed the need for more support, including collaboration, guidance, financial aid, and a consistent approach.
- 92% desired increased leadership and support from trade associations.
5. Waste and Carbon Emission Reduction:
- 95% believe there is a need to enhance the measurement, management, and reduction of waste and carbon emissions.
- 58% consider waste reduction and carbon emission reduction as top priorities.
6. Product Design and Materials:
- Only 29% claimed to have products with an ecolabel.
- 85% have not adopted any ecodesign principles.
- 64% are purchasing recycled components or materials.
7. Takeback Schemes:
- 52% have takeback schemes in place.
- 33% break down returned products for recycling.
- 11% send products to charities.
8. Industry Associations' Initiatives:
- BFC's member trade associations are increasingly active around sustainability.
- Initiatives include sustainability forums, strategy guides, and roundtable discussions.
BFC Chair Jonathan Hindle commented on the results, stating that while many companies are actively engaged in a sustainability agenda, there's a need for more concerted efforts as sustainability remains a low priority for some.
Various trade associations within the BFC are intensifying their focus on sustainability, with initiatives such as sustainability forums, strategy guides, and roundtable discussions. These efforts aim to guide members in setting up their sustainability and Net Zero plans.
The findings highlight both progress and areas requiring attention within the UK's furniture industry as it navigates the complexities of sustainable practices and strives to align with environmental goals.
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