Herman Miller is committed to using 50% recycled content in all materials by 2030 and it is increasing its use of materials already in circulation with a portfolio of Aeron Chairs made with ocean-bound plastic. With this change, the brand estimates that it will be helping to save 150 tons of plastic annually—which is roughly the equivalent to equal 15 million single-use plastic water bottles.
Herman Miller is introducing a brand-new Onyx Ultra Matte color that contains up to 2.5 pounds of mismanaged plastic waste found near waterways per chair. Some of the materials that are given new life as part of the collection may have originally taken the form of plastic bottles, jugs, caps and fishing gear. Additionally, the brand is adding ocean-bound plastic to returnable shipping crates so that seating parts are sent in a more sustainable manner.
Ocean Plastic Office Chairs
Herman Miller's Aeron Chair Incorporates Mismanaged Plastic Waste
Trend Themes
1. Recycling in Manufacturing - Manufacturers can explore using recycled materials, like ocean-bound plastic, in their products to become more sustainable.
2. Circular Economy - Businesses can develop circular economy models, like Herman Miller's goal of using 50% recycled content in all materials by 2030, to reduce waste and conserve resources.
3. Sustainable Shipping - Companies can explore incorporating sustainable materials, like ocean-bound plastic in returnable shipping crates, and more efficient shipping methods to reduce their carbon footprint.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture - Furniture manufacturers can explore using recycled materials and circular economy models in their designs to become more sustainable and eco-friendly, like Herman Miller's Aeron chairs made with ocean-bound plastic.
2. Consumer Goods - Consumer goods companies can reduce their environmental impact by exploring the use of recycled materials and sustainable shipping methods in their products and packaging.
3. Logistics - Logistics companies can explore more efficient and sustainable shipping methods, like using ocean-bound plastic in returnable shipping crates, to reduce their carbon footprint and become more eco-friendly.