MINOR MODULE

SUSTAINABLE THINKING AND

PRACTICES -2 Khushbu Sharma
Gauri Saini
Chahat Diwan
Khushi Gupta

UGPDID
INTRODUCTION
Newspapers are considered a sustainable and recyclable material because they are made from paper,
which is easily recyclable and biodegradable. Recycling newspapers reduces the need for virgin wood
pulp, conserving trees and energy while lowering carbon emissions. Widely available and often
discarded, newspapers can be repurposed for various uses, such as composting, packaging, and crafts,
helping to divert waste from landfills and reducing environmental impact. Additionally, many modern
newspapers use low-toxicity inks, making the recycling process safer and more eco-friendly. This
versatility and recyclability make newspapers a valuable resource in promoting sustainability.
PROBLEM
STATEMENT
With increasing environmental concerns and the rising volume of paper waste, the
need for sustainable waste management solutions has become critical. Newspapers,
a widely consumed product, often contribute significantly to paper waste when not
properly recycled or repurposed. Despite their potential for high recyclability and
versatility in various applications, a substantial portion still ends up in landfills,
contributing to deforestation, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions.
This report addresses the challenges associated with newspaper waste and explores
the role of recycling as a sustainable approach to mitigate environmental impact,
conserve resources, and promote a circular economy.
 Background Research: Newspaper Waste and Sustainable Recycling Solutions

Environmental Concerns and Paper Waste

With increasing global awareness of environmental issues, addressing the escalating volume of paper waste has become crucial. Newspapers,
one of the most widely consumed and discarded paper products, contribute significantly to this challenge. Globally, millions of tons of
newspapers are produced annually, but a large portion of them ends up in landfills rather than being recycled or repurposed.

Challenges of Newspaper Waste The Role of Recycling

Deforestation: The production of newspapers consumes vast amounts of wood Resource Conservation: Recycling reduces the need for virgin materials,
pulp, intensifying the pressure on forest resources. conserving forests and reducing energy consumption.

Energy and Water Consumption: Manufacturing paper requires substantial Reduced Landfill Impact: By diverting newspapers from landfills, recycling
energy and water, which adds to the environmental footprint of newspapers. minimizes methane emissions and landfill overuse.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Decomposing paper in landfills releases methane, Energy Savings: Producing paper from recycled materials requires
a potent greenhouse gas, exacerbating climate change. significantly less energy than from virgin wood pulp.

Low Recycling Rates: Despite their high recyclability, many newspapers are Circular Economy Promotion: Recycling fosters a system where materials are
not collected or processed for recycling due to logistical, economic, or reused and reintegrated into the production cycle, reducing waste and resource
behavioral barriers. depletion.
Applications of Recycled Newspaper

Recycled newspapers have versatile applications, including:

Paper Products: Creation of new paper products, such as packaging,

tissue paper, and cardboard.

Building Materials: Use in insulation, bricks, and wall panels.

Composting: Biodegradable properties make them suitable for

composting as a carbon source.

Art and Craft: Innovative use in design, sculpture, and craft projects.

Conclusion

The environmental impact of newspaper waste underscores the urgency of adopting sustainable practices. Recycling is a pivotal strategy to reduce
the environmental burden of newspaper production and disposal, contributing to resource conservation and the development of a circular
economy. Strengthening awareness, infrastructure, and policies for newspaper recycling can pave the way for more sustainable waste management
solutions.
REASONS/CAUSES REPERCUSSIONS
High Recyclability: Newspapers are made from paper Reduced Deforestation: Recycling newspapers
fibers that can be easily reprocessed to create new decreases the demand for logging, preserving natural
products. habitats.
Abundance: Newspapers are widely available and often
discarded after single use, making them an ideal Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Reduces methane
candidate for recycling. emissions from decomposing paper in landfills and
Environmental Impact: Recycling newspapers reduces the lowers energy consumption during production.
need for virgin wood pulp, helping to conserve trees and
reduce deforestation. Economic Benefits: Creates jobs in the recycling
Energy Efficiency: Producing recycled paper from industry and reduces costs associated with waste
newspapers consumes significantly less energy than disposal.
producing paper from raw materials.
Waste Management: Recycling newspapers helps to Resource Conservation: Saves water and energy, as the
manage the large volume of waste generated daily,
recycling process uses fewer resources compared to
reducing landfill usage.
manufacturing from raw materials.
Cost-Effectiveness: Recycled newspaper products are
often cheaper to produce than those made from virgin
materials.
 STAKEHOLDERS IN FURNITURE MARKET
Manufacturers: Produce furniture using raw materials.
Suppliers: Provide raw materials like wood, metal, and fabrics.
Retailers: Sell furniture to customers through physical or online stores.
Designers: Create innovative and functional furniture designs.
Customers: End-users, including individuals, offices, and institutions.
Distributors: Bridge manufacturers and retailers by managing logistics.
Government/Regulators: Set industry standards and regulations.
Investors: Provide financial support to furniture businesses.
Repair and Maintenance Services: Offer after-sales support for furniture upkeep.
E-commerce Platforms: Facilitate online sales and delivery.
Why Newspaper Can Be a How It Becomes a
Waste Problem? Waste Problem?
Volume of Waste: Newspapers are printed in massive Lack of Recycling: If newspapers are not recycled,
quantities daily. When people discard them after reading, it they contribute to waste instead of being repurposed
generates significant waste into new products like recycled paper.
.
Deforestation: Newspaper production requires large amounts Excessive Printing: Overproduction of newspapers
of paper, contributing to deforestation if sustainable that go unsold leads to unnecessary waste.
practices are not followed.
Improper Disposal: Disposing of newspapers with
Space in Landfills: When newspapers end up in landfills, they regular trash instead of recycling contributes to
take up valuable space and decompose slowly, especially in landfill overflow.
tightly packed environments.
Ink and Chemical Residue: Printing inks may
Environmental Pollution: Improper disposal, such as contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the
burning, can release harmful chemicals and contribute to air environment if not disposed of properly.
pollution.
 What Happens to Newspaper Waste?

Collection and Sorting Pulping

Waste newspapers are The newspapers are shredded and
collected from households, mixed with water and chemicals to
offices, and recycling centers. 1 2 break down the fibers into pulp.
They are sorted to remove RECYCLED Ink is removed through de-inking
contaminants like plastic, processes, often involving detergents
tape, or non-paper items. or flotation techniques.
REPURPOSED

Disposal (if not recycled) Recycling into New Paper Products

If not recycled, DISCARDED, The cleaned pulp is processed into new
newspaper waste ends up 4 3 paper products such as writing paper,
in landfills or tissues, or packaging materials.
incinerators, Lower-grade paper pulp is often used
contributing to for products like cardboard or egg
environmental issues. cartons.
 Mitigation Strategies
Recycling: Encourage recycling of newspapers to create
new paper products and reduce waste.

Digital Shift: Promote digital newspapers and online

news platforms to reduce physical printing.

Composting: Use newspapers for composting, as they are

biodegradable.

Creative Reuse: Repurpose old newspapers for crafts,

packing material, or other practical uses.
s
 01.
Recyclable and Biodegradable: Newspapers
Why Newspapers Can Be decompose easily and can be recycled multiple
times to reduce waste.
Used as a Sustainable
Material:
Abundantly Available: Newspapers are a readily

02. available post-consumer product that can be

repurposed instead of being discarded.

Energy Efficient: Recycling newspapers uses less

energy than producing new paper from raw

03. materials , Creative Reuse: By upcycling

newspapers, we reduce the demand for new
materials, conserving resources and minimizing
environmental impact
 Ideation process

01 02 03 04 05
Material Preparation Design and Molding Drying and Finishing
Assembly Customization and Aesthetics
Shredding: Old newspapers are The pulp is pressed into Components are dried under
Pieces are joined Furniture can be painted, laminated, or
shredded into small pieces to molds or layered to form sunlight or in industrial ovens to
using left with a natural newspaper texture
create a pulp-like material. furniture components harden and strengthen the
sustainable for a unique look.
Pulp Formation: The shredded like tabletops, legs, or material.
adhesives or Examples of Furniture Made with
paper is mixed with water and Sanding and Shaping: Once dried,
seat panels. fasteners, Recycled Newspaper
adhesive (e.g., eco-friendly glue the surfaces are sanded to
Layering Technique: creating sturdy Stools and Chairs: Compact designs
or starch) to form a durable, achieve a smooth finish and cut
Newspaper sheets can furniture items utilizing strong pulp for seating.
moldable pulp. to desired shapes.
be stacked and bonded like chairs, Tables: Layered newspaper boards
Strengthening Additives: Sealing: A protective coating
to create solid, wood-like tables, or create tabletops with unique textures.
Natural fibers like jute, resin, or (e.g., varnish, lacquer, or resin) is
boards. shelves. Shelves: Lightweight and sturdy units
sawdust can be added to applied to make the furniture
for storage.
increase durability. water-resistant and durable.
This process not only minimizes waste
but also creates eco-friendly,
affordable, and stylish furniture
options suitable for modern needs
 Techniques for Making
Furniture
Rolling: Roll newspapers tightly into tubes and reinforce them with glue. These tubes can be bundled together
for structural components.

Weaving: Use newspaper strips to weave sturdy panels for seats, baskets, or decorative backs of chairs.

Paper-Mâché: Create solid forms by layering newspaper strips with a glue-water mixture. Allow layers to dry
between applications for durability.

Laminating: Press and laminate layers of newspaper with resin or adhesive to create flat, strong surfaces
suitable for tabletops or shelves.

Compression: Compress newspapers into solid blocks using a press. Apply glue or resin to harden the
structure for use in table bases or seating.
 AI
GENERATED
IMAGES
How and why proposed solution is sustainable and
capable of solving problem?
1. Recyclable and Biodegradable Nature:
• The use of newspapers leverages their recyclable and biodegradable properties, ensuring that waste is minimized while reducing environmental
impact.
2. Reduction in Landfill Waste:
• Diverting newspapers from landfills reduces methane emissions caused by decomposition and conserves valuable landfill space.
3. Energy Efficiency:
• Recycling newspapers into furniture or other products uses significantly less energy than producing materials from virgin resources, reducing
overall carbon emissions.
4. Resource Conservation:
• By repurposing newspapers, the demand for virgin wood pulp and new raw materials is minimized, preserving forests and natural ecosystems.
5. Circular Economy Support:
• The project aligns with the principles of a circular economy by promoting the reuse of materials and reducing dependency on new resources.
6. Innovative Waste Management:
• Transforming newspapers into durable furniture demonstrates a practical application of waste management, addressing the global challenge
of paper waste.
FINAL PRODUCT
 VALIDATION INCENSITIVE
1. Choose High-Demand Small Products 3. Target the Right Buyers
Stools & Ottomans – Compact, lightweight, and Eco-conscious individuals who love sustainable
multipurpose. home decor.
Side Tables – Stylish, eco-friendly alternatives to Urban apartments & hostels needing space-
wooden tables. saving furniture.
Magazine Racks & Organizers – Perfect for Coffee shops & bookstores looking for unique
workspaces and living rooms. pieces.
Lamps & Decorative Pieces – Unique statement Corporate offices for sustainable workspace
pieces for eco-conscious buyers. solutions.
Storage Boxes & Shelves – Functional and
aesthetic. 4. Smart Sales & Marketing Tactics
Bundle Small Items: Offer “Eco-Home Starter Kits”
2. Improve Durability & Aesthetics with a stool, rack, and lamp.
Use lamination, resin coating, or eco-friendly Sell Online: List on Etsy, Amazon, and Instagram
varnish for longevity. shops.
Experiment with colorful patterns, prints, and Limited Edition Designs: Collaborate with artists
textures to make them trendy. to create exclusive collections.
Blend bamboo, metal, or fabric with newspaper Live Demonstrations: Show people how strong
for a premium feel. and durable the furniture is.
Engage with Local Eco-Stores: Partner with
sustainable lifestyle stores for display.
1. Designers & Innovators (You & Other Designers) 6. Artisans & Craft Communities
Engagement: Research and develop designs that are structurally sound, Engagement: Use their skills to handcraft unique furniture pieces.
aesthetic, and sustainable. Role: Provide employment opportunities while preserving traditional
Role: Experiment with techniques like papier-mâché, compressed paper craftsmanship
blocks, or resin-coated paper to make durable furniture.
7. Consumers & End Users
2. Manufacturers & Fabricators Engagement: Adopt and advocate for sustainable furniture options.
Engagement: Provide expertise in production, including testing durability and Role: Influence market demand and support eco-conscious brands.
scalability.
Role: Convert conceptual designs into real prototypes and ensure they are 8. Schools, Colleges & Research Institutions
practical for everyday use. Engagement: Conduct R&D on material strength and innovative
applications.
3. NGOs & Environmental Organizations Role: Develop new techniques and train students in sustainable
Engagement: Help source waste paper, raise awareness, and promote design.
sustainability.
Role: Facilitate collaborations for material collection and community-driven 9. Interior Designers & Architects
production. Engagement: Integrate waste-paper furniture into their projects.
Role: Influence mainstream adoption by promoting such furniture in
4. Waste Collectors & Recycling Units homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
Engagement: Supply raw materials by collecting and processing discarded
newspapers and paper waste. 10. Retailers & E-Commerce Platforms
Role: Create an organized supply chain for sustainable raw material Engagement: Market and sell sustainable furniture to a wider
procurement. audience.
Role: Create accessibility and awareness through strategic branding
5. Government & Policy Makers and promotions.
Engagement: Provide incentives, subsidies, and policy support for sustainable
initiatives.
Role: Establish guidelines for eco-friendly furniture production and promote
circular economy practices.
What Are Carbon Footprints?

The total greenhouse gas emissions (mainly CO₂) from human activities.
Measured in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Percentage Wise Distribution of Carbon
Footprint of Newspaper (Scenario I)

✅ Does Newspaper Furniture Release Carbon Footprints?

Yes, but very minimal compared to traditional furniture.

Why It’s More Sustainable:

🌿 Reduces Deforestation – No need to cut trees for wood.
⚡ Lower Energy Use – Handmade or low-energy processing reduces emissions.
🗑️Less Landfill Waste – Prevents methane emissions from decomposing paper.
🧪 Eco-Friendly with Natural Adhesives – Avoids toxic chemicals & VOCs.

Key Takeaway:
Making furniture from recycled newspapers is a low-carbon, eco-friendly solution, especially with sustainable materials and
🌍
minimal processing. ♻️
 CASE STUDY -1 https://newspaperwood.com

NewspaperWood by Mieke Meijer

Dutch designer Mieke Meijer developed "NewspaperWood," a material that

mimics the aesthetic and structural properties of natural wood.

The process involves rolling layers of newspaper tightly together with

adhesive, then slicing them to reveal grain patterns similar to wood.

This innovative material has been used to create various furniture pieces,
including cabinets and tables, offering a sustainable alternative to
Process traditional timber.
figure

New Hybrids 1st NewspaperWood collection Peugeot Exalt conceptcar European Inventor Award
 CASE STUDY -2

WooJai Lee's PaperBricks Project

Designer WooJai Lee developed a method to repurpose discarded
newspapers into "PaperBricks."
The process involves pulping newspapers, mixing the pulp with glue,
and molding it into brick-like forms.
These bricks possess a marble-like appearance and a soft texture,
yet are as sturdy as actual bricks.
Lee utilized these PaperBricks to create various furniture pieces,
including benches and coffee tables, demonstrating the material's
versatility and strength.
 Analysis of NewspaperWood & PaperBricks

1. Lifecycle, Material Choices, and Sustainability Claims 2. Comparison with our product

NewspaperWood (Mieke
Feature PaperBricks (WooJai Lee)
Meijer) Feature NewspaperWood PaperBricks Paper-Based Furniture

Compressed layers of Compressed layers of used

Material recycled newspapers paper mixed with glue for a Furniture with a focus on
Works like wood, can Used for furniture, walls,
mimicking wood grain stone-like texture Usability affordability and urban
be cut and shaped and aesthetic surfaces
use

Newspapers are glued, Waste paper is pulped, dried,

Production Process rolled, and compressed, and pressed into brick-like
then cut like wood blocks Compressed and
Strong but susceptible Needs treatment for
Durability durable, but weight is a
to moisture moisture resistance
factor
Reduces paper waste
Upcycles paper waste, creating
Sustainability Claims and offers an alternative
strong and aesthetic bricks
to timber
Reduces demand for
Repurposes waste but Aims for minimal
Environmental timber, but adhesives
Can be sanded and Recyclable but requires may involve chemical processing and high
Impact reduce
End-of-Life reused but not adhesives, which may limit full adhesives recyclability
biodegradability
biodegradable biodegradability

3. Sustainable Design Across Industries

Key Takeaways
Furniture vs. Construction: NewspaperWood and PaperBricks focus on architecture and
Your product could benefit from moisture resistance treatments while
furniture, while your concept focuses on interior applications.
maintaining recyclability.
Material Processing: Your approach minimizes industrial processing, while NewspaperWood
Minimizing adhesive use can enhance end-of-life sustainability.
and PaperBricks involve adhesives and compression.
Paper-based furniture can be more lightweight and adaptable than
Circular Economy Potential: NewspaperWood and PaperBricks contribute to reducing
NewspaperWood and PaperBricks, making it ideal for modular, urban
deforestation, whereas your paper-based furniture design aims to reduce urban waste and
solutions.
promote accessibility.
 Survey Analysis on
Sustainable Newspaper Furniture

Quality vs. Design Preference

Sustainability Perception
32.1% prioritize quality.
85.7% believe using newspaper for furniture is
14.3% prioritize design.
a sustainable and environmentally friendly
75% prefer a balance of both.
choice. Newspaper is a recyclable material
A balance ensures aesthetic appeal while
that reduces deforestation and waste.
maintaining durability.

Preferred Sustainable Materials

Commonly suggested materials: Bamboo,
cork, reclaimed wood, rattan, handmade
paper, cardboard, mycelium, wood scraps,
rice husk, plastic, thermocol ,Upcycled textiles,
biodegradable resins, compressed sawdust,
recycled metal. Functional Enhancements Suggested
Lightweight yet strong, multi-functional, durable,
modular, hidden storage, adjustable components,
Preferred Furniture Style
comfortable, compact, Waterproof or laminated
Minimalist, modern, traditional-modern fusion.
finishes for durability.
A sleek, modern look enhances market appeal.
 Survey Analysis on
Sustainable Newspaper Furniture

Willingness to Pay for Newspaper Furniture Recommendation to Others

Affordability, durability, and aesthetics influence Increasing awareness of benefits and durability
purchase decisions. may boost recommendations.

Aesthetic Perception of Newspaper Furniture

Aesthetic appeal can be improved with innovative
Comfort Level Rating
surface treatments or color customization.
Ergonomic design improvements can enhance
comfort.
Unique, eco-friendly,

CONS
cost-effective, urban-

PROS
Durability and
industrial potential
strength
when combined with
metal/wood.
 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENTGOALS
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Can create employment opportunities in sustainable craftsmanship and eco-
friendly design.
Supports the growth of green industries and circular economy models.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Promotes innovation in material use and sustainable product design.
Encourages eco-friendly solutions in the furniture industry.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Encourages eco-friendly furniture solutions for urban spaces.
Helps in reducing urban waste by repurposing discarded newspapers.
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Promotes recycling and upcycling of waste materials.
Encourages sustainable production practices.
Reduces environmental impact by minimizing waste.
SDG 13: Climate Action
Helps reduce deforestation by providing an alternative to wooden furniture.
Lowers carbon footprint by reusing materials instead of producing new ones.
SDG 15: Life on Land
Supports forest conservation by reducing dependence on wood-based furniture.
Encourages sustainable land use by minimizing paper waste.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Employment Opportunities: This initiative can create job opportunities in sustainable craftsmanship, providing work for artisans, designers, and small-scale manufacturers.
Growth of Green Economy: Encouraging the production of eco-friendly furniture supports the expansion of green industries, strengthening the circular economy.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Material Innovation: The use of compressed and treated newspaper to make sturdy furniture showcases innovation in material science, offering an eco-friendly alternative
to traditional furniture-making materials.
Eco-Friendly Product Design: This encourages sustainable practices within the furniture industry, inspiring more industries to adopt green solutions.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Urban Waste Reduction: Cities generate tons of paper waste daily. Converting this waste into furniture contributes to sustainable urban waste management.
Eco-Friendly Urban Furniture: Paper-based furniture can be used in homes, offices, and public spaces, reducing environmental harm while promoting sustainable city
design.
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Recycling & Upcycling: By repurposing discarded newspapers into furniture, this approach minimizes waste and promotes a circular economy.
Sustainable Production Practices: Instead of using virgin wood or plastic, which require high energy and resource consumption, paper-based furniture utilizes existing
waste, reducing demand for new materials.
Waste Reduction: Encouraging paper-based furniture production prevents excessive paper waste from ending up in landfills, reducing pollution and resource depletion.
SDG 13: Climate Action
Reducing Deforestation: Traditional wooden furniture leads to large-scale deforestation. Using discarded paper as an alternative reduces reliance on timber.
Lower Carbon Footprint: The manufacturing process of recycled paper furniture consumes significantly less energy compared to wood or plastic furniture, leading to lower
greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable Waste Management: Instead of burning waste paper, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, repurposing it into furniture helps in carbon
sequestration.
SDG 15: Life on Land
Forest Conservation: The demand for paper-based furniture reduces dependence on wood, preserving forests and biodiversity.
Minimizing Land Pollution: Paper waste is one of the most significant contributors to urban waste. Repurposing it into furniture helps in effective land use management and
prevents landfill overflow.
 Broader Impact of Paper-Based Furniture on Sustainable Development

Encouraging Circular Economy

Shaping Consumer Behavior: Reducing Pressure on Natural Models:
Resources:
Encouraging the use of recycled Instead of a linear "take-make-
materials in furniture-making This method minimizes the dispose" approach, paper-based
promotes an eco-conscious exploitation of trees, water, and furniture supports a regenerative
mindset among consumers and energy used in traditional furniture system where materials are
businesses. manufacturing. continuously reused.

Supporting Local Economies: By integrating sustainability into

furniture design, we can drive
Small-scale manufacturers and innovation, conservation, and
artisans can benefit from this cost- responsible production, making a
effective production method, significant impact on environmental
leading to economic inclusivity. preservation and economic
development.
To assess the Usability & Longevity of your sustainable furniture table made from dumped newspapers, we need to
focus on user testing, ergonomic assessment, and functionality analysis. Here’s how we can approach each aspect:

1. Usability Testing

Objective: Ensure the table is user-friendly and meets the needs of different users.
✅ User Interaction Testing:
Have multiple users test the prototype in real-life scenarios (e.g., writing, placing objects, casual dining).
Observe their experience—comfort, ease of use, and stability.

✅ Load-Bearing Capacity:
Gradually increase the weight placed on the table to determine its safe weight limit.
Check if it warps, bends, or collapses under stress.

✅ Surface Quality & Feel:

Test different finishing options to reduce paper deterioration and ensure a smooth, durable surface.
Assess if the surface is prone to scratches, moisture absorption, or dents.

2. Ergonomic Assessment

Objective: Ensure the table’s height, dimensions, and overall feel support user comfort.
✅ Standard Dimensions Check:
Compare the table’s height and width against standard ergonomic dimensions for desks, coffee tables, or dining tables
.
✅ Edge & Corner Safety:
Ensure smooth edges to prevent injuries.
Consider rounded corners for better safety.

✅ Hand & Arm Comfort:

Check if the material provides a comfortable resting surface (not too rough or soft).
Add a protective coating if needed.
3. Functionality Analysis

Objective: Test durability and adaptability in different environments.

✅ Water & Moisture Resistance:
Simulate spills and assess how the material reacts to liquids.
Apply protective sealants like epoxy, resin, or natural coatings if needed.

✅ Thermal Resistance:
Place hot objects on the table to check heat resistance.
Test different coatings to prevent warping or burn marks.

✅ Sustainability & Longevity:

Simulate long-term use by exposing the table to sunlight, humidity, and repeated
pressure to see how the material holds up over time.
Test biodegradability vs. recyclability—can it be easily repaired or reprocessed?

✅ Modularity & Upgradability:

See if the table can be disassembled or repurposed into different furniture items,
increasing lifespan and reducing waste.

Next Steps

Document Testing Results: Identify weak points and areas of improvement.

Material Optimization: Adjust coatings, reinforcements, or structural elements.
Scaling Strategy: Use findings from the small prototype to refine the full-scale
product.
 Sustainability Testing?
1. Material Composition Analysis
Recycled Content Testing: Confirms if the furniture is made from genuine post-consumer or post-industrial waste paper.
Toxicity Assessment: Ensures no harmful chemicals (e.g., formaldehyde, VOCs) are present in adhesives or coatings.
Biodegradability & Compostability: Determines if the material can decompose without harming the environment.

2. Lifecycle Assessment (LCA)

Evaluates the carbon footprint, energy consumption, and water usage from raw material sourcing to disposal.
Compares the impact of waste paper furniture to conventional wood or plastic furniture.

3. Strength & Durability Testing

Load-bearing tests: Ensures structural integrity and longevity.
Moisture & Fire Resistance: Checks if the material can withstand environmental factors without excessive deterioration.

4. Circular Economy Compliance

End-of-life recyclability: Can the furniture be recycled or repurposed after use?
Upcycling Potential: Whether the design allows reusability or transformation into new products.

5. Certification & Compliance

ISO 14040 (LCA Standard)
Cradle-to-Cradle Certification
FSC Recycled Certification (if relevant)
Green Seal or LEED Points Contribution
Biodegradability

Since the furniture is made from waste newspaper, biodegradability is a major concern:
Soil Burial Test – Placing material in soil and observing decomposition over weeks/months.
Microbial Degradation Test – Testing how bacteria or fungi break down the material.
Chemical Analysis – Ensuring no harmful synthetic binders slow degradation.
Lifecycle Analysis – Measuring carbon footprint and decomposition timeline.

Waste Minimization

To make the process sustainable:

Upcycling Techniques – Using other waste materials (e.g., natural adhesives, plant-based coatings).
Zero Waste Design – Planning furniture with minimal cutting and wastage.
Recyclability – Ensuring materials can be repurposed after use.
Eco-friendly Coatings – Avoiding synthetic paints and using natural alternatives.
 Compressive Strength Test (Load-Bearing Capacity)
📌 Purpose: Checks how much weight the furniture can handle before
breaking.
🔹 Method:
Place a weight plate or hydraulic press on the furniture.
Gradually increase the load.
Observe deformation or failure point.
2. Flexural Strength Test (Bending Resistance)
📌 Purpose: Tests the furniture’s ability to withstand bending forces.
🔹 Method:
Place the furniture (e.g., a chair or tabletop) between two supports.
Apply pressure at the center.
Record the force at which it starts bending or breaking.
3. Water Absorption Test (Moisture Resistance)
📌 Purpose: Checks how much water the material absorbs and its impact on
strength.
🔹 Method:
Weigh a dry sample of newspaper furniture.
Soak it in water for a specific time.
Weigh it again and calculate the absorption rate.
4. Fire Resistance Test
📌 Purpose: Evaluates flammability and fire resistance.
🔹 Method:
Expose a small furniture sample to an open flame for a few seconds.
Observe ignition time, burn rate, and whether the fire spreads or self-
extinguishes.
5. Adhesion & Bonding Strength Test
📌 Purpose: Tests how well the glued layers hold together.
🔹 Method:
Apply force to pull apart glued sections.
Check for separation, cracks, or weak bonding areas.
6. Biodegradability Test
📌 Purpose: Determines how quickly the furniture decomposes in natural
conditions.
🔹 Method:
Bury a small sample in soil for weeks/months.
Observe microbial breakdown and weight loss over time.
THANK YOU