Woodio : a Breath of Air for the Bathroom Industry with Eco-friendly Wooden Solutions | Knowledge Hub | Circle Economy Foundation
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Woodio : a Breath of Air for the Bathroom Industry with Eco-friendly Wooden Solutions
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Woodio designed the world’s first 100% waterproof solid wood composite made from real wood chips—with a minimal carbon footprint. The Woodio material innovation was inspired by making more sustainable wooden bathroom tiles, and today they have a line of bathroom sinks, bathtubs, and other bathroom accessories.

Problem

The ceramic industry, particularly the bathroom industry, is considered one of the most polluting industries globally due to several reasons.

First, its energy Consumption as the ceramic manufacturing process requires high temperatures, usually achieved through the burning of fossil fuels, for the firing and glazing of ceramic products.

Secondly, the production of ceramic products involves the extensive use of water throughout various stages, including clay preparation, molding, drying, glazing, and firing. Additionally, the discharge of wastewater from ceramic production can contribute to water pollution if not properly treated.

Thirdly, the ceramic industry relies on the extraction of raw materials, such as clay, silica, feldspar, and other minerals, which often involve mining activities and can lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and deforestation.

Finally, the ceramic production process generates significant waste, with various chemicals, including defective or broken products, unused materials, and wastewater sludge, and in an industry where circular economy practices are widely lacking.


Solution

Woodio, a Finnish company, has emerged as a pioneer in the bathroom industry by introducing a groundbreaking solution that addresses the environmental challenges. Woodio has developed and manufactured sustainable wooden materials for bathroom fixtures, revolutionizing the way bathrooms are designed and built.

Woodio's unique material is made from a blend of real wood and an eco-friendly adhesive. This innovative composite material combines the warmth and beauty of wood with the durability and water-resistance required for bathroom applications. By utilizing wood, a renewable resource, and adopting a sustainable production process, Woodio offers a compelling alternative to conventional bathroom materials.

Woodio's manufacturing process involves compressing the wood fibers and blending them with the eco-friendly adhesive, resulting in a solid and water-resistant material that can be shaped into various bathroom fixtures, including sinks, bathtubs, and shower trays. The company's commitment to sustainable practices extends beyond the material itself, encompassing the entire production chain, from responsible sourcing of wood to efficient waste management.

Outcome

Woodio's sustainable wooden material reduces the ecological footprint of bathroom fixtures. The use of wood as a primary resource minimizes the consumption of non-renewable materials and reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional materials such as ceramics or plastics. Besides Woodio's products are designed to optimize water usage while promoteing circular economy principles by actively encouraging the return and recycling of their products. At the end of their lifecycle, Woodio fixtures can be repurposed, recycled, or composted, reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable and circular approach to bathroom design.

By challenging conventional norms and offering an innovative alternative, Woodio has set a new benchmark for sustainable bathroom design.


Additional information

Photo by Aaron Huber on Unsplash

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