In 1947, HON’s very first product wasn’t made from shiny new materials. It was built from scrap metal. What others saw as waste, HON saw as opportunity. That single act of resourcefulness set the tone for more than 70 years of designing furniture with purpose.
At HON, we believe that responsible choices create responsible spaces, shaping the way we work every day. Sustainability has been part of our story from the very beginning. It’s reflected in the way we design, the materials we choose, and the details that make a lasting difference. With a fresh perspective on processes, materials, and product design, we’re dedicated to creating solutions that not only meet today’s needs but also safeguard our planet for generations to come.
Our Process: Thoughtful Collaboration for Impact
At HON, we embrace a collaborative spirit in our operations, striving to make choices that reflect our commitment to sustainability and community. By refining our processes, we’re reducing waste and improving efficiency.
- Adhesive Use and Product Recycling: By minimizing adhesives and introducing adhesive-free backs in products like Ignition 2.0®, we make it easier for customers to recycle furniture at the end of its life.
- Green Standards Partnership: Through our partnership with Green Standards, surplus furniture is redirected to schools, nonprofits, and organizations that need it most.
- Waste Transformation: Innovative co-mold technology allows us to turn post-consumer wood scraps into sturdy seat pans, diverting nearly 10,000 tons of waste from landfills each year. Fabric scraps are also repurposed into “shoddy,” a sustainable acoustical material.
We believe sustainability is built into everyday choices. From packaging to sourcing material, we continue to pursue solutions that protect the planet while serving the people who use our furniture every day.
Our Materials: Sourcing with Purpose
The materials we choose matter — not just for today, but for generations to come. At HON, we’re dedicated to sourcing fresh, impactful materials that make a difference.
- Packing Innovation: We've already removed almost 50% of Styrofoam packaging from our products. By the end of 2025, we'll replace all Styrofoam with recyclable options in our commitment to making responsible choices that benefit the environment.
- SEAQUAL® Fabrics: Through the SEAQUAL® Initiative, we’re helping remove marine litter and transform it into durable, high-performance fabrics.
- Mindful Finishes: We’ve worked closely with suppliers to eliminate PFAS, ensuring safer, healthier materials for customers and employees.
These innovations protect the planet while delivering high-quality, lasting materials our customers can trust.
Our Products: Designing for Longevity and Quality
We believe exceptional quality is a must. By partnering with industry experts, we create furniture that stands the test of time, meeting your needs and enhancing your spaces.
- Environmental and Air Quality Standards: Over 90% of our domestic furniture meets SCS Indoor Advantage™ Gold standards, helping create cleaner, healthier workplaces and reduce our overall footprint.
- Recycled Materials: Spectrum Mesh contains 20% post-consumer recycled polyester and meets OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 for chemical safety, ensuring it’s free of harmful chemicals and heavy metals.
- Enduring Performance: We have shipped more than 5 million Ignition chairs with less than a 0.5% defect rate, proving lasting reliability.
Longevity is one of the most powerful ways to drive sustainability. When products last longer, resources go further — reducing waste, conserving materials, and supporting healthier spaces. Our processes, materials, and products reflect a simple truth: durability and responsibility go hand in hand.
Looking Ahead
At HON, we believe that integrity is the heart of every great partnership. Our trusted connections with members, customers, suppliers, and partners empower us to work together toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
When you choose HON, you’re joining us in shaping a future where every space works better — for people, and for the planet.