The green value chain in the furniture industry: a case study of the best practices of Kenneth Cobonpue Company in the Philippines

This case study explores the green value chain best practices of Kenneth Cobonpue, a renowned Filipino industrial designer and the owner of Interior Crafts of the Islands, Inc., a furniture company. It has showrooms and offices in the Philippines, Germany, Portugal, and New York with a network of distributors in over 15 countries and 80 cities globally. In the company, there are more than 300 employees, including artisans who execute his designs using traditional weaving and knotting techniques and utilise natural materials to manufacture high-end furniture products. The research aimed to identify and examine the green value chain best practices of Kenneth Cobonpue, focusing on the sustainable green value chain practices, environmental impact, economic benefits, challenges and opportunities. Through qualitative research, including face-to-face interviews, site visits, and secondary data, the author showed how Kenneth Cobonpue integrates his green value chain strategies into his business model from design, to sourcing raw materials, production and distribution. Key findings highlight Kenneth Cobonpue's commitment to using natural and renewable materials, minimising waste, promoting energy efficiency, and supporting local craftsmanship. The opportunities and challenges of implementing green practices in the design sector are also covered in the study. It also offers insights for other designers and manufacturers aiming to enhance their environmental responsibility for business sustainability.