Green decor, let's see...

I'm more interested in design than green. There, I said it. If green was all to me then I'd suggest that people roll the nearest rock into their home to sit on, shut off the lights and be done with it. We've been selling decor made from recycled wood for years but what propels our business in design. I'm myself am more moved by a stunning design than by how eco-friendly a piece is suppose to be. I've been involved with the Sustainable Furnishings Council for years. I'm not anti green. In fact I'm all for it but the reality is, if it's got the look then that's what most people like, want and buy.
Most of my customers buy for the design period. The fact that something is recycled or sustainable is an added benefit but seldom the motivation to buy. You may disagree, but that's my experience.
But make no mistake, in the press green is key. Just ask any certification organization. They are in the business of green.
So, if motivated by design why spend time moving my fingers about green? It's here, it's in peoples minds, it's being sold, it's big business, and...it's COMPLICATED.
When it comes to furniture the issue of being green is complicated indeed. There are numerous certification programs out there. What is not addressed is, what is the footprint of this product?Let’s say a piece of furniture is made with certified wood that is harvested here in the U.S. That lumber may be shipped to the Philippines for manufacturing. The final product is then shipped back to the U.S. The transportation and factory production emissions are not addressed. Either is the VOC content of the finishes. Some manufactures work on percentages of the materials used being recycled or green. That really gets complicated.So, all the customer knows is that this piece of furniture is called green and is “certified”. In this case, at least the deforestation issue is being addressed but there is more to consider when making decisions on what is most environmentally friendly. I suggest that customers learn as much as they can about a products manufacturing process. At least ask the right questions which will hopefully inspire sales staff to learn. From there, do the best you can by taking steps in the right direction.
Now, show me some design!
Wally Stryk asianartimports.com