Mechelen (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Jan Roekens from Thomas More University warns about 11 billion kilograms of disposable furniture discarded annually in Europe. He advocates for sustainable practices and the TransFormMaker project, showcased at Festival Circular until November 23.
Jan Roekens, a researcher at Thomas More University College, is warning about the rising problem of disposable furniture, similar to fast fashion. Many people buy furniture impulsively and replace it often, which harms the environment. In Europe, about 11 billion kilograms of furniture are thrown away each year, and only 10% is recycled. The rest goes to landfills or is burned, causing pollution. Roekens says we need to take action and rethink how we design and dispose of furniture.
How can people reduce furniture waste and promote sustainability in Europe?
It has been said that to solve the furniture waste problem, people need to use better practices. Furniture makers should focus on making items that last longer, can be fixed, and can be recycled. Encouraging second-hand shops and fixing old furniture can help keep it useful for longer. Governments can set stricter rules for recycling and offer rewards for eco-friendly ways to throw away furniture. It’s also important to teach people how disposable furniture affects the environment. These steps can help reduce furniture waste and create a more sustainable future in Europe.
Experts from Thomas More are working on the TransFormMaker project to create a circular furniture industry that makes furniture last longer. They are looking into renting, repairing, and reusing furniture. To share their work, they are participating in the Festival Circulair until November 23 in Mechelen. Activities include an exhibition on furniture reuse at the old Toy Museum, a workshop on furniture restoration, and tours about the local furniture industry’s history. The festival aims to show how everyone can help support a sustainable economy. The full program is available on the event’s website
