Wed Sep 25 07:00:06 UTC 2024: ## Arper Launches Catifa Carta: A Chair Made Almost Entirely from Waste Materials
**Milan, Italy** – Italian furniture brand Arper has unveiled the Catifa Carta, a chair crafted almost entirely from waste materials and fully recyclable, showcasing their commitment to a circular economy. This launch coincides with the publication of their 2023 Sustainability Report, highlighting significant progress in reducing waste and increasing recycled material use.
The Catifa Carta is a reimagining of Lievore Altherr Molina’s iconic Catifa 53 chair, featuring a distinctive bi-curved shell made from PaperShell – a material derived from wood production residues. This innovative material is formed by layering and binding 29 sheets of kraft paper with a natural resin binder sourced from agricultural waste streams.
“Catifa Carta is a testament to our commitment to sustainability,” says Arper CEO Roberto Monti. “It marks a turning point in our strategy, showcasing that beauty, functionality, and sustainability can harmoniously coexist.”
At the end of its life, PaperShell can be pyrolyzed, a process that locks away the carbon stored in the wood residues, preventing emissions and creating a carbon-rich substance that enriches soil and supports tree growth.
“We are pioneering the use of innovative materials and conscientious practices to inspire change and set a new standard for responsible business in the industry,” adds Monti.
Beyond material innovation, Catifa Carta is designed for disassembly, enabling easy repair and maintenance to extend its lifespan. Arper is also piloting a refurbishment program in the Netherlands and Nordics, collaborating with local partners to collect and restore end-of-life products.
The chair features a QR code that provides information on its composition, maintenance, and disposal. Arper is currently developing a formal take-back scheme to ensure proper handling and minimize waste for all products.
The Catifa Carta is a symbol of Arper’s ongoing commitment to a circular system. “This isn’t just a product,” Monti concludes, “it represents our vision for the future, connecting the past, present, and future with sustainability at its core.”
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