Exploring The Circular Economy & Rental Furniture

Sustainability and responsible consumption are gaining increasing importance amongst end-consumers, and the concept of the circular economy has emerged as a way to reduce waste and promote resource efficiency.

One industry that has embraced the principles of the circular economy is the furniture industry. By offering rental furniture solutions, companies like Roomservice by CORT are revolutionising how we furnish our homes and offices.

What is the Circular Economy?

The circular economy is a regenerative economic system that aims to minimise waste and maximise the value of resources. Unlike the traditional linear economy, which follows a "take-make-dispose" model, the circular economy focuses on reducing, reusing, and recycling materials to create a closed-loop system.

In the context of furniture, the circular economy encourages renting furniture instead of purchasing it outright. By renting furniture, consumers can enjoy the benefits of a well-furnished space without the environmental impact of traditional furniture production and disposal.

Benefits of Rental Furniture

There are many reasons to rent furniture with some of the benefits as follows.

Resource Conservation and Energy Efficiency

Leasing furniture significantly reduces the demand for new furniture production. This, in turn, conserves valuable resources, such as wood, metal, and fabric. Additionally, the energy required to manufacture new furniture is minimised, leading to lower carbon emissions and a reduced ecological footprint.

Economic Advantages

Renting furniture offers several economic advantages over buying. First, it eliminates the need for a substantial upfront investment. Renting allows individuals to furnish their homes or offices without the financial burden of purchasing furniture outright.

Furthermore, renting offers flexibility. Renters can upgrade or change their furniture easily as their needs and preferences evolve. This flexibility is particularly valuable for those who need furniture for rental properties. This is especially the case for those who frequently move for work and need to rent furniture tailored to corporate relocation. It is also suitable for those who simply enjoy experimenting with different styles and designs.

Convenient and Hassle-free Experience

One of the most significant benefits of renting furniture is the convenience it offers. At Roomservice by CORT, we offer a turnkey service with white glove delivery. Our comprehensive services include delivery, setup, and maintenance. This hassle-free experience saves our clients time and effort, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives.

Renting also provides the option to change furniture items as needed. Whether it's a change in personal taste or a desire for a fresh look, renters can easily exchange their furniture for something new without the hassle of selling or disposing of old furniture.

Environmental Impact of Traditional Furniture Manufacturing

The traditional process of manufacturing and disposing of furniture has significant environmental implications. The production of new furniture requires the extraction of raw materials, energy-intensive manufacturing processes, and transportation. This results in the emission of greenhouse gases and the depletion of natural resources.

Furthermore, when furniture reaches the end of its life, it often ends up in landfills, contributing to the growing problem of waste management. According to Ian Mankin*, more than 50% of reusable furniture is sent to landfill every year in the United Kingdom. *https://ianmankin.co.uk/advice/britons-send-over-50-per-cent-of-reusable-furniture-to-landfill-every-year/#:~:text=22%20million%20pieces%20of%20furniture,to%20extend%20their%20life%20span.

Case Study: Living by Lendlease and Roomservice by CORT

A notable example of the integration of rental furniture within the circular economy is our partnership with Living by Lendlease. Living by Lendlease, a build-to-rent operator, recognised the benefits of rental furniture in their developments and chose us as their build to rent furniture hire provider.

This partnership offers residents in Living by Lendlease communities access to high-quality furniture that meets their needs without the financial commitment of purchasing furniture outright.

The Future of Rental Furniture and the Circular Economy

The adoption of rental furniture within the circular economy is a growing trend that shows promise for a more sustainable future. As more individuals and businesses recognise the reasons to rent furniture, the demand for rental furniture is expected to increase.

Also, as the furniture rental industry continues to evolve, it is constantly seeking ways to improve the sustainability of its operations. By investing in high-quality furniture that can be reused multiple times, waste is minimised, helping to contribute to a more circular and resource-efficient economy.

Rental furniture offers a practical solution for individuals and businesses alike. By embracing the circular economy principles and reducing waste, renting furniture not only benefits the environment but also provides economic advantages and convenience for consumers. As the demand for sustainable alternatives grows, renting furniture offers a more responsible and conscious approach to furnishing our living spaces.

To learn more about how Roomservice by CORT can help, find out how our furniture rental service works, or contact one of our professionals at rentals@roomservicebycort.com.