Interface leads a sustainability discussion on healthier material choices

Interface organised a sustainable materials panel in Bengaluru, emphasising carbon reduction, circular economy concepts, and industrial collaboration for a low-carbon future.

Sustainability is no longer a choice; it is a need. This was the clear message from industry professionals during the private panel discussion, “Selecting Healthier Materials: Carbon, Chemicals, and the Circular Economy,” presented by Interface, Inc. (NASDAQ: TILE), the global flooring solutions firm and sustainability pioneer, at Conrad in Bengaluru.

The event brought together sustainability experts, architects, and industry professionals to discuss the future of responsible material choices and practical ways to reduce environmental effects. Interface aims to become carbon-negative by 2040 without offsets, with a 1.5ºC science-based goal (SBT) set for 2030.

Championing sustainable innovation

Mikhail Davis, Director of Global Market Sustainability at Interface, opened the conversation by emphasising the importance of immediate, science-based climate action. “Sustainability is not an option; it is our collective responsibility. By selecting healthier materials, reducing embodied carbon, and embracing circularity, we can transform the built environment into a force for good.”

The panel discussed crucial issues such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Scope 3 emissions tracking, and new material selection methodologies. Experts expressed their perspectives on incorporating circular economy ideas into sustainable design while advocating for greater openness and responsibility in material sources.

Expert insights on sustainable materials

Fancy George, CEO of Thomas Workplace, highlighted the importance of looking beyond surface-level sustainability claims. “Choosing products labelled’ 100 percent recycled’ isn’t enough—we must demand transparency on actual recycled content, ensuring accountability from vendors.”

Shrutee Ganguly, Director, Net Zero & Sustainability, Turner & Townsend, India, emphasised the need for sustainability to be embedded from the inception of a project. “It’s not just a designer’s responsibility to think sustainable. Procurement teams, suppliers, finance teams and overall the policymakers must align efforts to reduce environmental impact and the dependence on virgin materials altogether.”

Wilma Rodrigues, Chief Transformation Officer (CTO), Saahas Zero Waste, underscored the need for businesses to step up. “Too many companies are still prioritising profits over environmental responsibility. True sustainability must be inclusive, ensuring its benefits extend to all.”

Creating a Circular and Low-Carbon Future

The discussion emphasised the importance of industry-wide collaboration in accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. Adopting new solutions, boosting recycling and repurposing infrastructure, and encouraging holistic ESG-driven company performance were among the key themes.

As Interface continues to set the standard for sustainable innovation, the event demonstrated the importance of making informed decisions in crafting a future in which both people and the earth thrive.

For more details, visit: http://interface.com