That's an excellent and very important question. We believe that creating beautiful, durable outdoor furniture comes with a responsibility to our planet. So, let's pull back the curtain on our manufacturing process.
First and foremost, we prioritize materials with a lower environmental footprint. The majority of our benches are crafted from either recycled materials or sustainably sourced wood. Our aluminum frames, for instance, contain a high percentage of post-consumer recycled content, significantly reducing the energy required for production compared to virgin aluminum. For wood, we strictly source from suppliers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensuring our timber comes from responsibly managed forests.
Our commitment continues on the factory floor. We've invested in energy-efficient machinery and, where possible, utilize renewable energy sources to power our production lines. This minimizes our carbon emissions. Furthermore, we have a near-zero-waste philosophy. Metal off-cuts are collected and recycled back into the production cycle, and wood scraps are repurposed or used for energy. We also use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) powders and stains for finishing, which are better for both the environment and the health of our team.
Ultimately, our goal is to create benches that not only last for decades—reducing the need for frequent replacement—but are also manufactured in a way we can be truly proud of. It’s a continuous journey of improvement, and we are always exploring new ways to lessen our environmental impact.