We are very glad to announce that in the framework of the FurnCIRCLE project, co-funded by the European Union, we have published the Preliminary edition of the Handbook for facilitating the circular economy transition in the EU furniture industry - A guide for companies and stakeholders for enhancing their competitiveness and jobs attractiveness. LINK to the Guide.

This guide is the result of a collaborative effort between the technical teams of the FurnCIRCLE partners and some external experts, and its content has been validated by more than 60 experts with multidisciplinary and complementary expertise.

This handbook aims to facilitate the understanding and work of stakeholders for a successful transition of furniture sector companies towards a more resilient system that can benefit businesses, people and the environment.

After a few introductory chapters that introduce the key concepts of the circular economy compared to the linear economy, the current state of the furniture sector and the key challenges and opportunities associated with it, the handbook provides the reader with analysis, information and many examples of practical strategies and actions for the successful implementation of circular practices within companies.

The new circular model aims to optimise the use of resources by keeping products and materials in circulation for as long as possible at maximum value. This is achieved through a range of strategies that contribute to cost savings and business opportunities, while promoting responsible consumption and a regenerative system that helps nature to thrive. We also focus on different methodologies and principles that can support and guide companies in their transition to more circular practices. 

We present 30 design and related strategies that can be applied in the furniture industry and that can have an impact at different stages of the product life cycle, all supported by real-world examples of hundreds of effective practices that companies can adopt to take tangible steps towards a successful circular transition. 

Much attention has been given to circular design, as it has a significant impact on different stages of the product life cycle; indeed, it is widely accepted that 80% of a product's environmental impact is determined at the design stage.

We also looked at the main legislative strategies and measures related to EU sustainability policy for the furniture sector, which were identified, presented and analysed.

For updates on further project activities and results, you can follow us on the project website: https://furncircle.eu/.