Should the word “disposable” be consigned to the bin!
Von: David Venables in Environment
This weekend I had to return my daughter’s new bright pink designer style desk lamp to Ikea. She had only had it for a few weeks and the bulb had gone - embarrassingly I couldn’t work out how to change it!
My blushes were saved on arrival at the store because I discovered to my amazement that there was no way to change the bulb. Even the store staff were clearly surprised to discover this was a “disposable” product! In fact the whole philosophy of this retailer and many in other sectors is a focus on cheap products with short shelf lives. If climate change is the biggest challenge we face, surely it is time we consume less and demand products that last longer? This is particularly relevant to my world of hardwood promotion. If we are to continue to enjoy this renewable resource, we should not just grow more trees, we should use the material more responsibly, and value it much more. For centuries we have made hardwood furniture that is still around today because of the quality of the material and the craftsmanship. I am not suggesting we all go out and buy antique tables and chairs but I do believe we should be supporting today’s craftsmen who combine modern design with quality materials and workmanship. By investing in these longer lasting, quality products, we will be making an important environmental contribution, whilst rediscovering that nothing tops a bargain better than a product that looks good, is well made, and lasts.