Cardboard Beds a Sustainable Solutions
In 2021, athletes from across the world travelled to Tokyo to compete for their chance to receive a Gold medal. Back in the athlete’s village, they were provided with cardboard beds. Japanese manufacturer Airweave produced these strong and sustainable sleeping arrangements.
Why Cardboard?
With the right design and construction, cardboard is incredibly durable. What’s more, the air pockets provide a degree of cushioning and insulation. It’s also a widely available and cost-effective material.
Made from a high percentage of recycled fibres and fully recyclable at the end of the competition, the cardboard beds also helped to reduce the environmental impact of hosting a global sports event.
Although the idea seemed quite radical at the time, the beds are back. Having proved that they are a cost-effective and green option, Airweave is now supplying around 16,000 cardboard beds to France, for this year’s summer games.
It seems that this solution could be more widely considered to provide affordable, temporary beds for homeless centres, social housing, festivals and more. Where do you think cardboard beds could be an asset?
