Up to 85% of a mattress could be recycled, but very often, they end up in landfills or are incinerated.
In France, Envie 2E Lorraine is changing that narrative and giving the materials in mattresses a second life. They partner with Ecomaison and Recyc-Matelas Europe to collect and recycle mattresses. Through a multi-step dismantling process, they separate mattresses into their components (e.g. steel, polyurethane, latex foam, textiles and wood) and bundled up, using a mix of manual labour and machinery.
This activity goes beyond environmental impact, it generates jobs for individuals facing barriers towards finding a job and provides them with meaningful pathways for training and reintegration.
This is yet another story we’re proud to share as part of our ongoing project on Social Enterprises’ Role in Furniture and Mattresses’ Circularity.
