interzum2025
The Sustainable Furnishings Council was proud to participate in interzum 2025 in Cologne, Germany—one of the world’s premier trade fairs for furniture production and interior design. It was a powerful reminder of how global and urgent the conversation around sustainability has become—and what a vital role our industry plays in it.
Alongside our Program Director, Angie Kenny, I presented “Materials Matter” on the interzum Trend Stage. Our discussion delved into how materials used in furniture production affect both human health and the environment. We explored the hidden costs of toxic chemicals in textiles, foams, paints, and leather, and highlighted safer alternatives like organically grown natural fibers, plant-based leathers, water-based finishes, and fire-retardant-free foams. We also emphasized the importance of responsibly sourced wood, advocating for FSC®-certified, reclaimed, or regionally harvested options to combat deforestation and biodiversity loss. Our “Materials Matter” framework encourages manufacturers and designers to look beyond aesthetics and consider the full lifecycle of their products—from extraction to disposal—and how each material choice affects air quality, water pollution, carbon emissions, and consumer well-being. Certifications such as OEKO-TEX®, GREENGUARD, Cradle to Cradle®, GOTS, and FSC® are critical for transparency and accountability, and we encouraged attendees to seek and support them in their sourcing decisions.
SFC also hosted a booth on the exhibition floor, where we connected with a wide range of international manufacturers, suppliers, buyers, and fellow advocates. These conversations were energizing, reinforcing just how much appetite there is for better practices and real solutions. Many attendees were surprised by how accessible healthier material options have become—and eager to learn how they could start making changes.
We were also thrilled to see two of our member companies, Enkev and Latex Green, exhibiting at the fair. Their leadership in natural materials and sustainable innovation was on full display, and it made us proud to see SFC members contributing meaningfully to the conversation on a global stage.
My time at interzum 2025 left me feeling hopeful and motivated. There’s a clear shift happening in our industry—away from “business as usual” and toward materials and methods that are safer, smarter, and more sustainable. SFC is here to keep that momentum going, and we are more committed than ever to helping our members lead the way.
Want to learn more about “Materials Matter” or get involved in SFC’s work? Reach out—we’re always eager to collaborate.
