Cradle to cradle in the office

13-09-2011 | Steelcase was the first company to receive cradle to cradle (C2C) certification for an office furniture product. Why is this important? The human being is the only species on earth that produces waste. As such humans may end up depleting the natural resources available. The depletion of environmental resources is one of the greatest causes of conflict in the world. Cradle to cradle (C2C) is a design-concept that aims to challenge this, by ensuring that products are designed to have a purpose beyond their own useful life, thereby reducing the demand for natural resources. This concept requires a revolution in thinking about design. Steelcase was the first company to receive C2C certification for an office furniture product. Now some six years later, many products in the Steelcase range carry a C2C certificate. Further more the company is on track with its five-year target to reduce 25% of its environmental footprint by 2012. Impressive results show achievements of 59% less CO₂ , 71% less water usage, and 63% less waste.

What does cradle to cradle mean?

The cradle to cradle (C2C) concept means that the to-be-discarded product is already designed with the next product produced from its ‘waste-material' in mind. The concept, articulated by architect William McDonough and chemist Michael Braungart, embraces ecologically intelligent design and takes sustainability in industrial production to a higher level that some have labeled as ‘material reincarnation’. The idea is to use materials in products in such way that their inherent quality remains, that they can be reused, and that there are no negative environmental impacts. The C2C model is gaining popularity and is being implemented around the world in a variety of industries and products.

Steelcase and the C2C concept 

Steelcase has embraced sustainability as a fundamental business challenge and its source of inspiration. In design, manufacture, and delivery it considers the impact of its activities on the environment and society. Its range of C2C products are based on in-depth studies of the chemistry of materials with a strong focus on recycling and reusability. The number of product components used has been reduced and no heavy metals or harmful substances are used. And by applying smart design and packaging options, Steelcase managed to triple the number of chairs that fit in a truck. It’s not just about the environment though. Corporate ethics and fair labour practices have also been adopted by Steelcase.

Triodos engages with Steelcase

Steelcase is already a sustainable innovator within its industry, and has recently re-qualified for inclusion in the Triodos Sustainable Investment Universe. Triodos Sustainability Research is in continuing dialogue with the company to encourage it to only use FSC certified wood and to further increase its level of C2C certification.

Note: The issues explored in this article are relevant for sustainable investments on the stock market. Triodos Bank believes that our socially responsible investments are a powerful means of promoting our values and working for greater sustainability, while enabling us to offer a complete range of attractive investment options to customers who choose to invest on the stock market.