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There are a few design ideas out there that are just green from the start; through smart materials use, efficient resource allocation and other design philosophies, their mere existence makes them a greener choice than conventional alternatives. Flat pack is one of these examples.
Based on the idea that the key to sustainability is living with less, flat pack is great because it allows for the creation of three-dimensional form and structure from two-dimensional materials; from a handful of pieces that can slide under the door, you can build a stool, a table, a chair--you name it, and it can just about be done.
One of flat pack's real advantages is in shipping; because the pieces are designed to fit into a small box with little wasted space, these boxes take up less space than pre-assembled furniture, and more can be fit into a shipping container, truck, car or whatever is hauling them. And if more can be fit in to each load, the fewer loads that need to be shipped, right?
Still, flat pack (by itself, at least) isn't perfect; the cheaper versions of it are often made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which is often glued together with urea-formaldehyde and polyurethane-based adhesives--two bad boys of poor indoor air quality. Green materials, like FSC-certified plywoods and water-based adhesives, can add credibility to the green foundation supplied by the flat pack design philosophy.
So, in sum, embrace flat pack when you're in the market for some new green furnishings, but watch out for off-gassing, un-sustainable materials, and stay tuned for more info on green design ideas.
Difficulty level: Easy
Learn more in Planet Green and TreeHugger
Get the Scoop on Green Wood Furniture
Indoor Air Quality on Planet Green
All Things Flat Pack in TreeHugger
Green Basics: Indoor Air Pollution
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