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ACTIU Berbegal y Formas, S.A.
Blog / Sustainability / Sustainable materials: the key to responsible and efficient design
Sustainable materials: the key to responsible and efficient design

Sustainable materials: the key to responsible and efficient design

MARCH 2025
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3 minutes
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Sustainability has gone from being an option or a trend to a non-negotiable necessity in the design and construction of spaces. At Actiu we know that innovation and sustainability are the soul of industry and responsible furniture design.

Opting for sustainable materials not only reduces environmental impact, but also brings economic benefits and improves efficiency in the life cycle of products.

What are sustainable materials?

Sustainable materials are those that minimise their environmental impact throughout their life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials to their reuse or recycling. They are characterised by:

  • Reduced consumption of natural resources.
  • Low carbon footprint in their production and transport.
  • Durability and recyclability, avoiding unnecessary waste.
  • Energy efficiency, such as thermal insulation in buildings.

Materials such as certified wood, recycled glass and reused plastics are revolutionising sectors such as architecture, construction and furniture design.

inspiration moodboards

Benefits of using sustainable materials

The use of environmentally friendly materials not only has a positive impact on the environment, but also offers economic and functional advantages. Some of the main benefits include:

  • Lower environmental impact: Reduced CO₂ emissions and lower resource consumption.
  • Increased energy efficiency: Materials with thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
  • Durability and reduced maintenance: Less replacement and long-term waste.
  • Sustainability certifications: Compliance with standards such as LEED, WELL and LEVEL, ensuring the environmental quality of the spaces.

Actiu, through product certifications such as LEVEL® by FEMB and the recent recognition as a B Corp™ company for its support of social and environmental movements, strengthens and consolidates its conviction that design can, and should, balance functionality, beauty and corporate responsibility.

moodboard pastel colours

Sustainable materials in space furnishings: which are the most efficient?

Sustainable furniture uses materials that reduce their negative impact on the environment and prolong their life cycle. Among the most prominent are:

Certified wood: beyond natural

Wood from responsibly managed forests ensures less environmental impact and promotes the regeneration of ecosystems. In addition, derivatives such as MDF and plywood can include recycled fibres.

Recyclable steel: resilience that is born anew

Steel is a material with a long service life and high recyclability, making it a robust and sustainable alternative.

Recycled Plastics: A Second Life for Waste

Polypropylene and other recycled plastics prevent the accumulation of waste and reduce dependence on oil. They are versatile materials that can be reused in numerous furniture applications.

Recyclable glass: ecological transparency

Glass is 100% recyclable and its use in furniture and architectural spaces improves energy efficiency by optimising the entry of natural light.

Recyclable aluminium: the infinite metal

Aluminium has a recyclability rate of more than 90 %, keeping its properties intact in every reuse process.

How do you ensure that the materials you buy are sustainable?

If you are looking to incorporate sustainable materials in your projects, take these criteria into account:

✔ Recognised certifications: go for wood products identified with FSC® or PEFC, furniture certified with LEVEL® by FEMB, fabrics/upholstery labelled with Oekotex Standard 100 and choose collaborative B Corp™ companies.
✔ Supplier information: Make sure materials come from responsible sources.
✔ Material life cycle: Evaluate recyclability and durability.
✔ Energy efficiency and thermal insulation: Additional benefits in energy consumption.

The future of furniture is not just about form, it's about impact. We design to inspire, to care and to build a world where every choice counts. Because change starts today, and every decision brings us closer to a more sustainable tomorrow. The combination of innovative design, recyclable materials and sustainable production processes allows us to reduce our environmental footprint without compromising quality or aesthetics.