5 Best Ways To Use Reclaimed Restaurant Furniture and Go Green

Incorporating reclaimed restaurant furniture is an impactful environmental statement that resonates well with the growing eco-conscious customer base. Here are five ways to do this effectively, supported by insightful data:

1. Promote Material Reuse and Waste Reduction:
   • The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the US generates approximately 12.2 million tons of furniture and furnishings waste per year. By opting for reclaimed furniture, your restaurant contributes to reducing this waste. For example, using a set of reclaimed wooden tables could save hundreds of pounds of wood, considering the average table weighs around 75 to 100 pounds.
2. Energy Conservation through Upcycling:
   • Manufacturing new furniture is energy-intensive. The upcycling process can reduce energy usage by up to 95% for certain materials. If a typical restaurant outfit saves 10 new pieces of furniture by reusing, it could be indirectly saving enough energy to power a home for a year, given that the energy saved from upcycling a single wooden piece can equate to about 1000 kWh.
3. Lower Carbon Footprint:
   • Transportation of new furniture adds to carbon emissions. By sourcing locally reclaimed furniture, a restaurant can significantly reduce its carbon footprint. For example, if furniture is sourced within a 30-mile radius instead of 500 miles away, carbon emissions can be reduced by over 90%.
4. Economic Benefits and Cost Savings:
   • Reclaimed furniture often costs 10-30% less than new furniture. For a restaurant seating 50 people, this could mean savings of $2,000-$6,000 on chairs alone. These savings can be invested back into other sustainable practices or directly into the business.
5. Customer Appeal and Increased Patronage:
   • According to a Nielsen global online study, 66% of consumers are willing to pay more for products and services that come from companies committed to positive social and environmental impact. By using reclaimed furniture and marketing this choice, a restaurant can potentially attract a significant portion of this market share, directly influencing sales.

By adopting reclaimed furniture, restaurants not only make an environmental impact but can also see tangible economic benefits while aligning with consumer values that prioritize sustainability. These practices, backed by an understanding of the related data, can empower restaurant owners to make informed decisions that benefit the environment, their patrons, and their bottom line.