The Environmental Benefits of Choosing Wooden Picnic Tables Over Metal or Plastic


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wooden picnic table

In today’s eco-conscious world, choosing sustainable outdoor furniture isn’t just a trend – it’s a responsibility. For businesses, councils, and homeowners alike, selecting wooden picnic tables over plastic or metal alternatives can significantly reduce environmental impact.

At Orchard Street Furniture, we’re proud to supply high-quality wooden picnic tables that are not only functional and beautiful, but also far more sustainable than many mass-produced metal or plastic options.

 

Why Timber Is the Greener Choice

  1. Renewable Resource with a Low Carbon Footprint

Wood is a natural, renewable material. Responsibly sourced timber – such as FSC-certified softwoods or hardwoods – is grown, harvested and replenished with far less energy than the production of plastic or metal.

Compared to steel and plastic, timber has a dramatically lower carbon footprint over its lifecycle – especially when locally or UK-sourced.

  1. Biodegradable & Recyclable at End of Life

Unlike plastic picnic benches which can take hundreds of years to degrade, wood naturally decomposes and returns to the earth without polluting soil or waterways. Wooden tables can also be repurposed, reused or fully recycled.

  1. Less Energy-Intensive Production

The manufacture of plastic and metal furniture requires significant amounts of energy, raw materials, and chemical processing. In contrast, turning sustainably harvested timber into picnic benches is a low-impact process that avoids toxic by-products.

 

Picnic table from Orchard Street Furniture's Picnic Bench range

 

Comparing Environmental Impact: Wood vs Plastic vs Metal

Feature Wooden Tables Plastic Tables Metal Tables
Material Source Renewable (FSC timber) Fossil fuels Mined ores
Recyclability High Low Medium
Carbon Footprint Low High Medium–High
Biodegradability Yes No No
Visual Appeal Natural, classic Synthetic Industrial
Lifespan 10–15+ years with care 5–10 years 10–20 years

 

Supporting UK Timber Industry and Local Sustainability

By choosing UK-manufactured wooden picnic benches, you’re:

  • Supporting British forestry and jobs
  • Reducing carbon emissions from overseas shipping
  • Helping promote sustainable land management

 

Long-Lasting and Low-Waste When Maintained

With basic care (seasonal wood treatments and gentle cleaning), timber picnic benches can last well over a decade. This longevity makes them a low-waste investment compared to disposable plastic alternatives.

Bonus Tip:
Pressure-treated timber resists rot, fungal decay and insect damage – perfect for the UK climate.

 

cleaning wooden garden furniture

 

Finally: Choose Sustainability with Timber

Choosing wooden picnic tables is more than a design decision – it’s a step toward reducing your environmental footprint. Compared to metal and plastic alternatives, timber offers:

  • Renewability
  • Low-impact production
  • Natural aesthetics
  • Long-term value

For gardens, parks, schools or pub beer gardens, a wooden picnic bench is an eco-conscious investment that supports the planet while enhancing your outdoor space.

 

Ready to go green?

Browse our full range of sustainable wooden picnic tables and take a confident step toward a greener outdoor setting.

 

Read our blog on How to Maintain Your Outdoor Timber Furniture here…