This year on earth day lets all make a commitment on how we can lower our carbon footprint.
Shopping locally made furniture can provide several benefits to the environment. Here are some ways we are helping make a difference. Support for sustainable materials: Our local Mennonite furniture makers use locally sourced (mostly Ontario and Quebec) and sustainable materials, which can help to reduce the environmental impact of furniture production.
By constructing furniture from solid wood, with dovetail drawers and a premium varnish finish, our furniture is built to last. The longer it lasts, the longer it will be before it ends up in the landfill. One interesting fact is that the sawdust that our Mennonite builders produce is recycled as livestock bedding; the scrap wood is used to heat homes. Local Forestry Philosophy: The sawmills that manage the timberlands maximize their long term returns through professional forest management.
They understand how to protect forest health, encourage growth, and enhance future value through sustainable selective harvesting. As one mills puts it “We know that land is more than just the trees, the timber is part of a larger ecosystem that includes the wildlife, clean water, and fresh air which is why they deserve professional care we can provide”. Reduced transportation emissions: Buying locally made furniture reduces the need for long-distance transportation. With less transportation involved, there is less pollution generated by the trucks, planes and ships involved in shipping furniture from one country to another which can significantly reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and our carbon footprint.
Reduced packaging waste: When furniture is made locally, it doesn’t need to be packaged as much for shipping, which can help to reduce the amount of packaging waste generated. Promoting energy efficiency: Our local furniture makers use energy-efficient production methods and equipment which can help to reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Preserving natural resources: Our Mennonite furniture makers prioritize repurposing wood and other materials, which can help to preserve natural resources- nothing gets wasted. Support for local wildlife: Locally sourced materials can also support local wildlife habitats and ecosystems, since it ensures that local habitats are not destroyed or disturbed to source the materials for the furniture.
