At Humanscale, sustainability is not just a soundbite, it’s embedded into everything we do. Over the years, we’ve pioneered groundbreaking initiatives that push the boundaries of what’s possible across the design industry and manufacturing. From being the first to achieve third-party certifications to rethinking how products are made and consumed, our journey is one of innovation, responsibility, and leadership.
Below, we highlight some key milestones that have helped to define our commitment to creating a healthier planet for all.
2016 – First Manufacturer to Achieve the Entire Living Product Challenge
In 2016, Humanscale became the first manufacturer to achieve the Living Product Challenge certification, recognized as the most rigorous sustainability standard in the industry. This milestone was achieved for both Float and Diffrient World.
Overseen by the International Living Future Institute, the Living Product Challenge requires products to have a net-positive impact on the environment and society. This achievement set a new benchmark for manufacturing and solidified our commitment to redefining sustainability and ethical responsibility.
2017 – First Manufacturer to Upcycle Fishing Nets into Our Products
Discarded fishing nets, a significant contributor to ocean plastics, pose a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems. In 2017, Humanscale became the first in the commercial furniture industry to upcycle these harmful materials into products.
In partnership with Patagonia, we launched an initiative to collect and transform discarded fishing nets into plastic pellets, which are then used in our Ocean chairs: Liberty Ocean, Smart Ocean, Freedom Ocean, and Path. Each chair incorporates up to 10 lbs. of reclaimed ocean plastics, demonstrating how innovation can turn waste into purpose and inspire a larger movement toward responsible disposal and material reuse.
2018 – First to Remove Red List Chemicals
In 2018, Humanscale set a new standard for healthy materials by becoming the first manufacturer to eliminate Red List chemicals from our products. These harmful substances, known as "worst-in-class" for human and environmental health, are commonly found in building materials and furniture.
By removing Red List chemicals, we ensured that our products promote wellness and contribute to healthier indoor environments, aligning with our mission to create designs that prioritize both people and planet.
2019 – First to Systematically Publish Declare Labels
Transparency is key to creating truly healthy products. In 2019, Humanscale became the first manufacturer to systematically publish Declare labels across our product range. Often referred to as "nutrition labels" for building materials, Declare labels provide a detailed account of product ingredients, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals like those on the Red List.
This initiative empowers customers to make informed choices and holds manufacturers accountable for material health and sustainability, further cementing Humanscale’s leadership in ethical manufacturing.
2020 – First to Eliminate PFAs and Other Harmful Chemicals from Products
In 2020, Humanscale became the first manufacturer to eliminate PFAs, a group of persistent “forever chemicals” linked to significant health risks, from our product line. This initiative expanded our commitment to material health by also removing other Red List substances, including Chrome 6 and HFRs.
Building on this milestone, we continue to innovate and actively work to eliminate additional toxins, including all added antimicrobials from our entire line, setting a higher standard for healthier, more sustainable products in the industry.
2021 – First to Use Onsite Captured Rainwater for All Production
Water scarcity affects over 25% of the global population, making conservation critical. In 2021, Humanscale’s manufacturing facilities began running entirely on captured rainwater.
In Piscataway, NJ, a closed-loop system harvests rainwater to power production, while in Nogales, Mexico, monsoon rains sustain operations and cool the facility. To further support the local community, we also provided employees with low-flow showerheads to conserve the city’s water supply. This commitment highlights our dedication to preserving natural resources and giving back to the communities we call home.
2021 – First to Have the Majority of Our Products Certified Climate Positive
Going beyond sustainability to regeneration, Humanscale became the first company in 2021 to have the majority of its product portfolio certified Climate Positive. These products, which now represent over 70% of our sales, actively offset 110% of their embodied carbon, water, and energy values.
Paired with initiatives like restoring Monarch butterfly habitats and installing solar panels for affordable housing, our products’ Climate Positive certifications continue to set new standards for accountability and impact in manufacturing.
2022 – First to Have All Factories Zero Waste Certified
In 2022, Humanscale achieved TRUE® Zero Waste certification across all global factories, demonstrating our dedication to reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.
By diverting over 94% of waste globally, our teams ensured that materials were rigorously sorted, recycled, or reused. This milestone goes beyond meeting certification requirements—it serves as a call to action for the industry to embrace circular production models and address climate change with bold solutions.
2024 – B Corp Certification
In 2024, Humanscale earned B Corp certification, becoming the only major brand in the commercial furniture industry to achieve this prestigious recognition. Joining a global movement of companies like Patagonia and Allbirds, B Corp certification demonstrates our commitment to governance, workers, community, environment, and customer impact.
This certification reinforces Humanscale’s dedication to transparency, ethical practices, and regenerative manufacturing, and we hope it inspires others to embrace business as a force for good.
A Legacy of Leadership
Humanscale’s journey of firsts reflects a deep commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. By challenging industry norms and setting new benchmarks, we’ve not only redefined what’s possible but also inspired others to join us in creating a better future.
We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished—and we know there’s more to do. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to pioneering solutions that benefit people, communities, and the planet. Together, we can build a truly sustainable world.
