SUSFUR Local Training on Sustainability and Circularity in the Wood and Furniture Industry in the Netherlands
As part of the SUSFUR project, ECREC (the Netherlands) successfully organized a local training programme aimed at introducing prospective students to the opportunities, innovations, and sustainability challenges within the wood and furniture industry. The training sought to inspire young people to explore educational and career pathways in the sector while increasing their awareness of the growing importance of circular economy principles and sustainable production practices.
Throughout the training, participants were introduced to the objectives of the SUSFUR project and explored innovative developments within the Dutch furniture and wood industry. Through presentations, discussions, and practical examples, they learned about circular furniture production, material reuse, product lifespan, repairability, and design for circularity. The programme also showcased how Dutch companies are implementing circular business models and sustainable production practices, demonstrating how innovation and sustainability can create both environmental and economic value.
As part of the training, participants visited HMC, the leading vocational education institute for woodworking, furniture making, and interior design in the Netherlands. During the visit, they explored student exhibitions, workshops, and learning environments, gaining valuable insight into educational pathways and career opportunities within the sector. Participants were also introduced to advanced manufacturing technologies, including CNC machining and digital production techniques, highlighting the increasing role of digital skills in modern furniture manufacturing.
The training provided opportunities for participants to engage with educators, students, and industry representatives, helping them better understand the close collaboration between education and the furniture sector, as well as the knowledge and competencies required by future professionals.
Overall, the local training demonstrated that the wood and furniture industry is an innovative, dynamic, and future-oriented sector where sustainability, technology, craftsmanship, and creativity come together. By combining presentations, practical examples, and direct exposure to educational and industry environments, the programme successfully encouraged young people to consider further education and future careers in a more sustainable and circular furniture industry.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
