Sustainable Fixture Design & Retail Program Management
Sustainable design, also known as eco-design or green design, is an approach to design that aims to minimize negative environmental impacts while enhancing the overall quality of life for present and future generations. It involves considering the environmental, social, and economic aspects of a product, building, or system throughout its entire lifecycle - from raw material extraction, production, and use to disposal or recycling.
Key principles of sustainable design include:
- Resource Efficiency: Using materials, energy, and water efficiently to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.
- Renewable Energy: Incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydro power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Recycling and Reuse: Designing products and systems that can be easily disassembled, recycled, or repurposed at the end of their lifecycle.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: Minimizing pollution, emissions, and environmental degradation throughout the lifecycle of the design.
- Biophilic Design: Integrating natural elements and features into design to enhance human well-being and connection with nature.
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): Evaluating the environmental impacts of a product or system throughout its entire lifecycle, from raw material extraction to disposal.
- Social Responsibility: Considering the social and ethical implications of design decisions, including labor conditions, community impact, and equity.
Sustainable design can be applied to various fields including architecture, product design, urban planning, and transportation, among others. It requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors to create solutions that are environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and economically viable.
How to create more sustainable fixtures and store fixture programs?
We recommend looking closely at the life cycle of a program and its fixtures and emphasize reducing the carbon footprint through design, material selection, finish selection, components/systems, local & regional sourcing, packaging and logistics management.
We emphasize local and regional manufacturing and distribution whenever possible to reduce the carbon footprint of long distance shipping and overseas shipping. Taking a strategic approach to domestic and regional manufacturing will have a dramatic impact on the overall sustainability of the fixture programs.
Selecting Materials and Finishes:
Materials:
Bishop recommends greater use of rapidly renewable materials, recycled or reclaimed materials, and recyclable materials. such as bamboo, hemp and other fast growing wood species. Bamboo is the most rapidly growing and renewable wood resource and is worth investigating. It is possible to establish a highly sustainable fixture program emphasizing Bamboo sheet materials as Ikea has accomplished in their furniture lines.
Finishes:
Bishop finishes in both lacquer and waterbase paints, and metal powder coating. We recommend using LOW VOC finishes whenever possible to reduce your stores environmental impact and improve overall air quality.
Sustainability in Fixture Packaging and Shipping:
Logistically we maximize our load plans whenever possible to reduce the number of trucks and overall carbon footprint of our clients' programs, this includes inbound raw material and components as well as outbound finished product. The packaging - cardboard corner guards and boxes are made from recycled materials and metal strapping, when used, is recyclable. Pallets are made from wood and we are working on reclaiming, recycling and reusing pallets whenever possible.
Fixture Repair and Refurbishment vs. Replacement or New Fixtures:
This is an option that extends the life of the store fixtures and environment while reducing the programs overall carbon footprint. We recommend designing your store fixtures with the opportunity for repair and refurbishment. Higher quality materials typically allow for this, as well as store fixtures that are designed allowing for part replacement. Bishop Fixture provides field repair services as well as replacement parts for many clients. In fact, we are the sole provider of this service for some Fortune 100 companies saving them millions annually.
Wood Suppliers and Sustainability:
Bishop Fixture's raw material procurement comes from trusted domestic resources, that follow sustainable forest practices and hold FSC certifications and monitor their materials chain of custody as well as undergo annual audits. Our wood based product suppliers adhere to local, state and national, land, wildlife, air, and water conservation regulations. Many suppliers have implemented sustainability programs to reduce or reverse their carbon footprint. Look for suppliers who are also participants in the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification requirements, follow all FSC guidelines and are audited by a third party annually.
Use of Recycled Materials:
In the store fixture industry, recycled materials are becoming increasingly popular as businesses and consumers alike seek more sustainable options. Here are some common recycled materials used in the store fixture industry:
-
Recycled Wood: Wood from salvaged or reclaimed sources is often used in store fixtures, displays, and furniture. This includes reclaimed pallet wood, salvaged timber, and wood from old buildings or structures. Reclaimed wood adds character to fixtures while reducing the demand for new timber and diverting waste from landfills.
-
Recycled Metal: Metals such as steel and aluminum can be recycled and repurposed into various store fixtures and display components. Recycled metal is commonly used for shelving, racks, brackets, and signage. Using recycled metal reduces the energy and resources required for virgin metal production and helps minimize environmental impact.
-
Recycled Plastic: Post-consumer and post-industrial recycled plastic can be used to manufacture a wide range of store fixtures, including shelving units, display bins, and signage. Recycled plastic fixtures help reduce the consumption of virgin plastic and mitigate plastic pollution in the environment.
-
Recycled Glass: Glass is another material that can be recycled and incorporated into store fixtures and displays. Recycled glass countertops, shelving, and decorative elements are popular choices for sustainable store design. Using recycled glass conserves resources and reduces energy consumption compared to producing new glass.
-
Recycled Cardboard and Paper: Cardboard and paperboard are commonly used for temporary or promotional store fixtures such as displays, stands, and packaging. These materials are lightweight, cost-effective, and recyclable, making them ideal for short-term installations and environmentally conscious retailers.
-
Composite Materials: Composite materials made from recycled fibers, plastics, or other waste materials are also utilized in the store fixture industry. These materials offer durability, versatility, and sustainability, making them suitable for a variety of applications including shelving, countertops, and decorative panels.
-
Other Recycled Materials: In addition to the above, various other recycled materials may be used in the store fixture industry, depending on availability and specific design requirements. Examples include recycled fabrics, rubber, and composite boards made from recycled agricultural or industrial waste.
Overall, incorporating recycled materials into store fixtures not only helps reduce environmental impact but also aligns with consumer preferences for sustainable products and practices.
Here is a short list of some recycled materials we use when applicable:
Reclaimed/Reused/Repurposed Hardwood Lumber Medium Density Fiberboard
Particleboard - reclaimed wood fiber
Acre panels
https://www.roseburg.com/resources/skyblend-and-ultrablend-recycled-content-packet/
https://na.arauco.com/en/resources/download/AraucoRecycleContent
https://modern-mill.com/tree-free/
Use of Biodegradable Materials:
-
Biodegradable Plastics: Bioplastics derived from renewable sources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cellulose are commonly used in the manufacturing of retail fixtures. These biodegradable plastics can break down into natural components under suitable conditions, reducing their environmental impact compared to traditional petroleum-based plastics.
-
Bamboo: Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that is commonly used in retail fixtures such as shelving, displays, and signage. It is biodegradable and has a lower environmental footprint compared to other wood materials due to its rapid growth rate and minimal need for pesticides or fertilizers.
-
Cornstarch-Based Materials: Cornstarch-based materials, often referred to as PLA (polylactic acid), are biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics. PLA can be used to manufacture a variety of retail fixtures including packaging, containers, and display items. It is derived from renewable resources and can biodegrade under composting conditions.
-
Recycled Paperboard: Paperboard made from recycled paper fibers is commonly used in retail store fixtures such as display stands, packaging, and signage. It is biodegradable and recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for temporary or promotional fixtures.
-
Wheat Straw: Wheat straw, an agricultural byproduct, is increasingly being used as a biodegradable material in retail fixtures. It can be molded into various shapes and forms, making it suitable for products such as packaging, trays, and disposable utensils. Wheat straw is renewable, compostable, and reduces reliance on virgin plastic materials.
-
Mycelium-Based Materials: Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, can be grown into biodegradable materials that are suitable for retail fixtures and packaging. Mycelium-based materials are compostable, lightweight, and can be molded into custom shapes, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional materials.
-
Natural Fiber Composites: Composites made from natural fibers such as hemp, flax, or kenaf combined with biodegradable resins are used in the manufacturing of retail fixtures. These materials offer strength, durability, and biodegradability, making them suitable for applications such as shelving, countertops, and displays.
Wood Sources:
Hardwood Lumber
Plantd Materials - The industry's first 100% electric-powered production line for construction materials. Their first product is a stronger, more moisture-resistant, 7/16" thick structural panel made from perennial grass instead of trees. - https://www.plantdmaterials.com/
Medium Density Fiberboard
Particleboard
Wood products are biodegradable and we also use a Soy based adhesives in our plywood.
Here is a link to an excellent site from the Composite Panel Association that covers sustainability and other environmental performance indicators: https://www.compositepanel.org/sustainability/design-sustainably/
Plastic Sources:
Certified Recycled Acrylic - https://www.recrylic.com/
Bishop Fixture's Eco-Conscious Services & Programs
SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS
If your project has sustainability or LEED ® requirements, Bishop will ensure your fixtures are designed, built, and delivered according to your standards. Our goal is to reduce your project's carbon footprint while maximizing the long-term value, overall cost savings, and marketability of your store environment.
ECO-FRIENDLY DESIGN
Bishop's considers the carbon footprint of its displays, but it takes a collaborative effort to deliver a reduced carbon footprint. Environmentally considerate displays combine friendly design, engineering and materials to create a product with a reduced carbon footprint. Bishop's staff will consider these factors alongside your design intent to achieve the optimal product. The sourcing and distribution will come next.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT
Reduce, Reuse & Recycling Program
Energy Reduction Program
VOC Reduction Program
Water Usage Reduction Program
Paper Usage Reduction Program
Ocean & Water Support Initiative
Tree Planting Program
Environmental Clean Up - Adopt A Highway
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
Over 90% of material byproducts are recycled
All wood waste is recycled for use by local dairy farms
Wood and metal powder coating provides low-VOC finishing
Automated finishing equipment improves efficiency & reduces overspray
Paint booth filtration management reduces waste
Energy monitoring & management systems reduce heat and energy loss
Energy audits help us fine tune our energy conservation efforts
Creating a environmentally concious retail display or a more carbon nuetral retail store fixture program can be a challenging but rewarding task. By following the tips and best practices in this blog post, you can design a retail display that attracts customers and boosts sales while also supporting the environment.
You can also contact Bishop Fixture to help you create stunning and effective in-store retail displays and fixtures that meet your sustainability and ESG goals. Contact them today and let them help you create a more eco-friendly retail display that showcases your products, enhances your brand image, and creates a positive and memorable shopping experience for your customers.