Sustainable product design and the wood furniture sector

Abstract

This research focused on relating the ability a sustainable design approach can have when working with the wood furniture sector, in order to improve its products environmental and social impact. This research used a methodology comprised of a literature review on sustainable design and on the characterization of the Portuguese wood furniture industry, followed by case-study analysis of wood furniture projects that used environmental design strategies in their development. The main empirical task was a survey to the sector with the goal of understanding the know-how and relationship this companies have with design and sustainability. Results show that companies use design as a main tool for product development, but not for environmental impact reduction, as their engagement with sustainability is far from implemented. The use of sustainable product design tools is expected to have a great effect in the change of current practices. Recommendations for future researches are also presented.