One enterprising man has saved a lot of money by making all his furniture out of used FedEx boxes and packaging supplies. The furniture is not just for show; he actually sleeps on the bed, eats at his dining table and works on his desk.
The idea came from his friend who had made a simple desk for his computer out of necessity. When Jose Avila moved to Arizona, he found himself in similar straightened circumstances. Stuck with double rents incurred with the move, he could not afford furniture. What he made for his apartment is not for sale but for his own personal use. He notes on his website exactly how many and what type of FedEx shipping materials he used and how much it all weighs. He ruefully admits the chairs are not totally comfortable but they easily bears his weight (170lbs).
FedEx's legal department predictably went after Avila but Stanford University's Centre for Internet and Society CyberLaw Clinic leapt to his rescue. You can see copies of the letters on his website.
Recycled Packaging DIY
FedEx Furniture
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Furniture - Creating furniture from recycled or upcycled materials.
2. DIY Packaging Projects - Repurposing used packaging materials into creative and functional objects.
3. Minimalist Living - Adopting a lifestyle that prioritizes the essentials and reduces waste through resourceful creativity.
Industry Implications
1. Packaging - Exploring opportunities for packaging companies to offer sustainable and upcycled materials for consumer use.
2. Furniture - Innovating on the production of furniture to use more recycled and eco-friendly materials as part of a sustainable product line.
3. Sustainability Consulting - Advising companies on ways they can use more sustainable materials in the manufacturing process while also finding more eco-friendly ways to package products.