Both Bunnings and IKEA have recently announced their decision to phase out engineered stone products from their offerings. This shift marks a significant departure from the once-popular trend of incorporating engineered stone into various home applications.
Engineered stone, a composite material made from crushed stone and resin, gained immense popularity in recent years for its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. It became a staple in kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces, and even flooring. However, concerns about the environmental impact and health hazards associated with the production and installation of engineered stone have prompted major players like Bunnings and IKEA to reassess their product offerings.
Engineered stone will be phased out by Bunnings by the end of the year after mounting pressure. The decision aligns with the company's commitment to sustainable practices and providing customers with environmentally friendly options. Bunnings aims to encourage consumers to make more informed choices that prioritize both quality and eco-consciousness. CFMEU national secretary Zach Smith has stated “When even a massive corporation that until now has put profits over workers’ lives concedes it’s lost any remaining social licence to sell this killer stone, no government can squib it on a ban. Bunnings should be congratulated for eventually doing the right thing and pulling these deadly bench tops from their shelves.”
IKEA has also joined the movement away from engineered stone. The company has emphasized the importance of exploring alternative materials that are both sustainable and safe for consumers. Mr Smith praised the decision by the furniture giant, "There is now unstoppable momentum behind banning engineered stone, IKEA now backs what the CFMEU and health experts have been saying all through this campaign: there is no safe exposure to engineered stone.” However, he also believes that “IKEA should join Bunnings in setting a concrete date because lives are at risk every single day we wait."
Mr Smith also slammed state, territory, and federal governments for lagging behind retailers in banning the sale of engineered stone. "Bunnings and IKEA have beaten our federal, state and territory governments to the punch,” he said. "We need an immediate announcement from all work health and safety ministers locking in a ban.” The union has previously stated it would implement its own ban on members working with engineered stone if governments fail to do so.
References:
Bunnings to pull 'asbestos of our generation' from shelves as silica dust code kicks off in ACT