The design and manufacturing industry is at a turning point. As the built environment faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact, designers, architects, and manufacturers are shifting towards sustainable, responsible fitouts. A crucial aspect of this transformation is the adoption of a circularity model – one that prioritises repurposing, reusing, and recycling materials to divert waste from landfill.
The evidence of this focus is everywhere – from conversations with clients and panel discussions at trade shows, to better options for recycling and GBCA’s complete revamp of the Green Star Interiors. Their new ratings tool will become Green Star Fitouts to deliver a new definition of sustainable fitouts and drive supply chain transformation, fostering a circular economy.
The Challenge: Reducing waste in fitouts
Fitouts, whether in commercial offices, hospitality venues, or healthcare spaces, generate significant material waste. Traditional design and construction methods often lead to excessive offcuts, outdated products, and redundant samples that ultimately end up in landfill. The challenge for the industry is to rethink how materials are used and ensure that waste is minimised at every stage of the process.
- ~10% emissions are from materials and construction*
- ~50% of resources used worldwide are for buildings and fitouts*
(source: GBCA Green Star Fitouts)
A circular approach
A circularity model reimagines the lifecycle of materials, focusing on longevity and resource efficiency. By incorporating sustainable materials, designing for disassembly, and creating systems that facilitate reuse and recycling, the industry can reduce its environmental footprint.
Some key principles of a circular approach include:
- Designing for longevity: Selecting durable, high-quality materials that extend the lifespan of fitouts.
- Material recovery and reuse: Repurposing existing products instead of discarding them.
- Recycling initiatives: Establishing partnerships that enable materials to be transformed into new products rather than becoming waste.
Recycling & take-back programs
As well as a commitment to providing fit-for-purpose products to the contract interior design industry and creating an in-house task team called The Waste Warriors, we have taken a proactive step in addressing waste through some take-back programs.
Through these collaborations, we ensure that materials that would typically be discarded are instead given a second life, through a responsible recycling stream.
Can more be done? Yes it can. And we are constantly researching new ways to recycle and to take-back more products.
Shaping the future of responsible fitouts
At Materialised, we are committed to playing our part in reducing waste and driving a more sustainable future. By embracing new initiatives and rethinking how materials are managed, we can help shape an industry where fitouts are designed with purpose, responsibility, and longevity in mind.
Together, we can close the loop on waste and build a future where sustainability is the standard, not the exception.
About the Author: Catherine McGowan
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