Our planet is changing rapidly. Temperatures are rising, air pollution is at an all-time high, and violent storms surge. Although some choose to walk with blinders on, others have taken the cue to change the way they live. They reduce, reuse, recycle, compost, and drive low-emission or electric cars. But what designers realize is that in order to make this change completely, we must not only look outside our home for ways to harness sustainability. We must look inside as well.
Thankfully, this is becoming easier as a vegan and sustainable furnishing market is on the rise for luxury clientele.
The Sustainable Furnishings Council, which Laurence Carr Design officially joins this fall, exists to “…help companies reduce their environmental footprint as they grow, and to help consumers find healthy furnishings.” This invaluable organization makes it simple and straightforward for businesses to reduce their emissions while empowering individuals to purchase furniture responsibly.
The International WELL Building Institute is also contributing to raising awareness about how we build structures and is helping to develop construction regulations that are beneficial to our wellness.
The company “…is the premier standard for buildings, interior spaces, and communities seeking to implement, validate and measure features that support and advance human health and wellness.” Most importantly, the company is working to refine its Well Community Standard pilot, providing communities with sustainability ratings, pushing the envelope on advancement in the infusion of wellness into architectural practices. Ultimately, giving communities insight through a comprehensive rating system empowers communities to make wise building choices. Laurence Carr Design keeps abreast of these programs and developments.
Looking inside the home or any interior spaces, it is important to look out for the quality and the integrity of the furniture, including elements that are unlikely to break down when eventually one parts ways with them.
Anything made with plastic would fall into this category, so be sure to ask questions about the fabrication and specifications of any piece before purchasing. Additionally, you want to avoid particle board, which is made of wood chips and sawdust glued together with harsh chemicals. Your mattress choice is also key since typical mattresses are some of the most toxic pieces of furniture you can have in your home. Chemicals found in mattresses include polyurethane and flame retardants among others. You may consider purchasing from Coco-Mat, a sustainable eco-friendly mattress brand that we recently featured.
Additionally, if we love our animals, we want to make sure to show that love consistently, especially if we consider ourselves vegan.
Not only is the factory farming industry known for its poor treatment of animals, but it is also one of our world’s greatest contributors to toxic emissions. We must consider this as we shop. It is important to avoid down comforters and pillows, which are a product of unspeakable acts of animal cruelty, including live plucking of birds. Additionally, according to vegan comforter company, Buffy, it takes 1,000-3,000 gallons of water to produce enough cotton to make a comforter, thus damaging the environment for wildlife. Leather sofas and chairs should be avoided and simply replaced with vegan fabric options–specifically sustainable versions, now available in stores like Crate & Barrel.
The best news is that responsible eco-living doesn’t stop with home furnishings.
The luxury fashion industry is beginning to catch up, developing lines that are elegant and earth-conscious. Fashion designers like Stella McCartney have dedicated themselves to creating vegan and sustainable pieces. McCartney, in particular, has developed fabrics including synthetic silk, stating in an interview with Business of Fashion Magazine, “the consumption of animals–whether you’re wearing them or eating them–is extraordinarily damaging to the planet.”
Additionally, makeup companies have joined the eco-vegan movement. Hourglass is a predominantly vegan makeup company that places value on impeccable products created without testing on animals. The company uses top-notch, natural ingredients to achieve an impeccable, luxurious user experience. Additionally, Sappho New Paradigm offers stunning shades of shadows, lip stains, and foundations, all created with vegan, sustainable, cruelty-free ingredients.
Becoming more eco-conscious can start small. Consider replacing air fresheners and scented candles with sustainable, non-toxic versions. Additionally, recycling, reusing and composting are a must. Composting is not limited to those with outdoor space. Great indoor options are available, like the Noaway Countertop Wood Compost Bin from Food52. You may also consider a rain barrel if you do have outdoor space. You’ll be surprised how these small steps can snowball quickly, eventually pushing you to make better choices for the planet with each and every purchase you make.
