The Sissonne Guide: What to Look For in Sustainable Outdoor Furniture

Sustainable outdoor furniture has become more popular over recent years, and for good reason. Using sustainable materials in outdoor design helps reduce our carbon footprint, minimise waste, and maximise the lifespan of your investment. With the right selection, you can create a beautiful, eco-conscious sanctuary in your own backyard.

This is your guide to sustainable furniture for outdoor seating, dining, and lounging, focusing on eco-friendly materials made to last for years to come.

What Makes a Material Sustainable?

In outdoor furniture design, sustainability means making a conscious effort to choose materials that preserve our planet's resources, minimise harmful chemicals during manufacturing, and are capable of lasting for decades, not just seasons.

True sustainability is the antithesis of "fast furniture." It involves materials ranging from recycled plastics (like high-density polyethylene made from post-consumer waste) to responsibly harvested timbers.

The Gold Standard: Sustainably Sourced Teak

Wood that is sourced and harvested through sustainable processes promotes biodiversity and helps reduce deforestation. Responsible resource management ensures that timber is harvested via processes that allow for the continued growth of forests.

At Sissonne Outdoor, we believe Teak is the ultimate sustainable material.

• Longevity: Teak sourced from sustainable forests is naturally packed with oils that repel water, rot, and fungi. It withstands extreme temperatures and can last 75 years or more.

• Carbon Sequestration: Trees absorb carbon dioxide. By using timber from responsibly managed forests, you are supporting a cycle that actively benefits the atmosphere.

Recycled HDPE

Recycled plastic furniture is another eco-friendly solution that reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and lowers the demand for new plastic production.

• Durability: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is often made from recycled ocean and landfill-bound plastics. It is extremely durable, resistant to moisture, and won't crack or peel, making it a smart companion to natural wood pieces.

Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood recovers timber from old buildings or demolished structures. It gives new life to old materials, preventing the need for new harvesting. While rustic and charming, it requires careful treatment to ensure it is durable enough for outdoor exposure.

The Benefits of Going Green

Purchasing outdoor furniture made from sustainable materials is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the environment.

1. Reducing Landfill Waste

Sustainable furniture utilises materials that are either already in existence or require less energy to produce. More importantly, because sustainable furniture is built to last, it breaks the cycle of disposable consumerism. "Buying nice" means you won't be throwing a rusted, broken chair into a landfill in two years.

2. Fewer Chemicals

Sustainable manufacturing aims to minimise harmful chemicals, such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can affect human health. Fewer chemicals in production mean a cleaner atmosphere and a safer home environment for your family.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

While the upfront cost of sustainable luxury may be higher, the cost-per-use is significantly lower. Furniture designed to withstand the elements requires less maintenance and replacement, saving you money and resources in the long run.

What to Consider When Buying

When shopping for eco-friendly outdoor furniture, look for these specific indicators of quality and responsibility.

FSC Certification

Research the materials used. Always look for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification.

• What it is: The FSC is an international non-profit dedicated to promoting responsible forestry.

• What it guarantees: This certification ensures the forest is managed in a way that respects indigenous peoples' rights, protects biodiversity, and ensures the timber is produced in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.

• Our Commitment: At Sissonne Outdoor, we are dedicated to using resources that do not harm the environment, which is why we exclusively use FSC-certified teak.

Cradle to Cradle (C2C)

Similar to FSC, Cradle to Cradle certification assesses safety to humans and the environment, as well as design for future life cycles. It certifies that furniture can be easily disassembled to be repaired, recycled, or reused, preventing materials from becoming waste.

Modular Design

Modular design is one of the most thoughtful ways to ensure sustainability.

• Adaptability: Modular sectionals use interchangeable units that can be rearranged to fit new homes or changing needs.

• Repairability: If one part is damaged, you can replace just that module rather than discarding the entire sofa. This flexibility significantly extends the lifespan of the furniture.

Warranty and Supply Chain

Transparency is key. Look for brands with clear warranty policies and transparent supply chains. A company that stands behind its product with a robust warranty is a company that builds for longevity. Knowing where your furniture comes from—and that it was made ethically is the final step in curating a sustainable outdoor home.