Raw material usage in furniture and cabinet manufacturing

There are two types of raw materials that are recognized today and both play an important role in the construction and cabinet manufacturing industry and contributing to the environment. Primary raw materials are those that are provided for us naturally by the Earth and are used to produce goods, finished products, or energy, such as wood, metal, natural gas, and minerals. While it seems that these natural resources might be everlasting, it is extremely important that we use them sustainably and follow guidelines laid out by governing bodies to ensure that we don’t use them up completely.

Secondary raw materials are those that are the most important for the future of our planet as they are waste that is recycled back into the economy and used again, instead of sourcing primary raw materials. Although a circular economy with secondary raw materials is largely accepted as the ideal way to use raw materials and natural resources, secondary raw materials make up a very small percentage of the total raw materials used around the world. In the European Union, the Commission is looking at ways to increase the use of secondary raw materials through actions such as waste separation, separate collection based on products, and new laws that enforce the need for recycling centers across the region.

Garnica, a global leader in plywood manufacturing, is committed to the sustainable use of raw materials. Through the use of wood from plantations located in small environments near our factories, we help contribute to the well-being of the rural communities and their inhabitants. Poplar is one of the most sustainable species on the planet: through capturing large quantities of carbon dioxide, poplar trees can filter the water that goes to nearby plants, protecting crops from flooding. And, of course, through capturing the carbon dioxide, more oxygen is released into the atmosphere.

Here are some of the most common raw materials used in construction:

• Wood:
  • Wood is a very popular raw material, especially when reusing and recycling materials. Its natural ability to be cut and placed together with other wood panels make it easily customizable and a great choice for builders looking to sustainability choose materials.
• Brick:
  • As one of the most versatile raw materials, bricks can serve a number of purposes, due to its durability. Made from sand and clay paste, it's stable and reliable, in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.
• Metal:
  • For structures where wood is not strong enough, metal is a common choice due to its natural strength and resistance. It is more expensive than wood however, and harder to shape and customize.

On the other hand, the raw materials used for furniture construction vary slightly:

• Wood:
  • Due to its versatility, wood is also a popular choice for furniture construction. Easy to machine and long-lasting if cared for, wood can create high-quality and attractive furniture that is unique and customized exactly to the tastes of the consumer. Plywood panels are especially popular, as, among other qualities, it has a higher yield, meaning we can use less wood to achieve the same result, contributing to less waste in the environment.
• Fabric:
  • Once your dream furniture is built, there is a wide range of fabrics that can be used to upholster the furniture and add an elegant and personal touch. Velvet, cotton, linen, and silk are all options that are available, depending on the style and look you are after.
• Leather:
  • Leather is a high-quality alternative to fabric that can leave you with a highly resistant finished product that is the perfect fit for almost any room. Durable against folds and tears, leather can be a great finishing choice for your furniture.

At Garnica, we are committed to sustainability and promoting a circular economy that will lead to zero waste in the future. Dedicated to the use of sustainable raw materials and reducing waste, our products are not only high-quality and durable, but also work with the environment, instead of against it. Check out our product line to see what materials will complete your next project.