The baby prams, strollers, or pushchairs industry has seen a noteworthy transformation in recent years. Among various changes, sustainability concerns have become a central focus in manufacturing processes and material selection. As environmental tensions are rising everywhere, even stroller makers are increasingly incorporating sustainable materials.
Different scientifically proven practices are getting into their production processes. Knowing what roles these materialistic changes hold regarding baby prams is crucial. And this comprehensive analysis intends to explore the various aspects of sustainable materials in stroller manufacturing. You’ll also get the possible impact on the industry and future trends.
Current Scenario of Stroller Manufacturing Materials
Traditional strollers featuring old-school manufacturing methods and materials in manufacturing mainly rely on the following approaches –
Aluminum and/or stainless-steel alloys.
Rubber and foam for wheels and padding.
Synthetic fabrics for seats and canopies.
Petroleum-based plastics for components.
Chemical-based finishes and treatments.
All these conventional materials are highly functional and cost-effective. However, they’re well known to present environmental challenges, like –
High carbon footprint during production.
Almost zero to very limited recyclability.
Entirely non-biodegradable components.
Resource-intensive production processes.
Potential toxic emissions during making.
Image Resources: Storyblocks.com
Speaking of environmental concerns, scientists revealed traditional strollers’ negative side. And the environmental impact of classic manufacturing materials manifests in several ways, including –
Resource Depletion – Extensive and increased mining of metals and petroleum extraction for plastics.
Energy Consumption – High energy requirements to implement all the distinctive processing methods across stroller manufacturing.
Waste Generation – Non-biodegradable materials contribute to landfill overflow, leading to severe long-term soil-water pollution.
Chemical Pollution – The release of harmful substances occurs during production and disposal, causing damage to the ecosystem.
Transportation Emissions – Heavy materials require more fossil fuel consumption for their shipping.
In simple terms, traditional models/designs seem more alluring, with favorable pricing and balanced features. But everything becomes a no when you turn around your responsibility towards the environment.
Sustainable Materials in Modern Stroller Manufacturing
Bio-based Materials
Stroller brands are increasingly adopting, employing, and investing in innovative bio-based materials. There are different types of materials implemented in stroller manufacturing, the leading ones being –
Plant-based Plastics
Bio-based polyethylene from sugarcane
Bamboo-derived composites
PLA (Polylactic Acid) from cornstarch
Natural Fibers
Bamboo fiber blends
Organic cotton for fabric components
Hemp-based textiles
Sustainable Rubber
Bio-based elastomers
Natural rubber from responsible sources
Recycled rubber compounds
Source: Vecteezy.com
Recycled Materials
Lots of manufacturers are continuously incorporating recycled products instead of raw materials. Such materials are somewhat cheap to manage, though the recycling capability makes a big difference.
Recycled Plastics
Post-consumer plastic waste
rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) from water bottles
Recycled nylon from fishing nets
Recycled Metals
Recycled aluminum frames
Upcycled metal parts
Reprocessed steel components
Source: Env.com
Advanced Composites
Researchers and scientists developed many modern composite materials with sustainability benefits. Not all such materials are well-suited to craft or support stroller functionality. The leading ones are –
Natural Fiber Composites
Hemp fiber materials
Flax fiber-reinforced polymers
Jute-based composites
Hybrid Materials
Eco-friendly binding agents
Combination of recycled and bio-based materials
Multi-layer sustainable composites
Source: Freepik.com
Carbon fiber is a composite material known for strength and lightness. Stiffness, resistance, expansion, and aesthetics – all come with this material. The stroller industry seems to have developed a keen interest in using this one. That’s why more models made from carbon fiber are hitting the market.
Top Sustainable Materials in Stroller Manufacturing
Organic Cotton
It’s one of the most popular materials in stroller manufacturing. Unlike conventional cotton, organic one grows without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The benefits of organic cotton in strollers include –
The soft and hypoallergenic material is gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin. It’s less likely to cause any allergic reactions.
Organic cotton usually requires less water than conventionally grown cotton.
As organic means free from toxic chemicals, it’s a much safer option for babies directly exposed to pushchair fabrics.
Organic cotton is used in seat covers, harnesses, and padding to offer babies a soft and safe surface.
Recycled Polyester
It’s made by repurposing plastic waste, such as PET bottles. This one has increasing application in stroller fabrics. Recycled polyester features excellent durability to withstand any adverse outdoor conditions.
Using recycled plastic means manufacturers can reduce waste going to landfills and oceans.
Recycled polyester is strong and water-resistant to endure rough handling, making it ideal for strollers.
Production of recycled polyester requires less energy than creating new polyester from petroleum.
Manufacturers put recycled polyester in stroller canopies, seat covers, and rain covers. It provides a long-lasting layer of protection that’s also environmentally friendly.
Bamboo Fabric
It’s directly derived from the fast-growing bamboo plant. Bamboo is naturally pest-resistant that needs minimal water, regardless of the stage in its life cycle. And the topmost benefits of using bamboo are –
The tree grows rapidly and regenerates without needing to be replanted. That’s what makes it a highly renewable resource.
Bamboo harnesses natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. So, the chances of maintaining a well-hygienic fabric are possible.
The natural fiber crafts a highly breathable fabric that wicks moisture away. It keeps babies cool and comfortable.
Bamboo fabric has observed a gradual but definite increase in widespread use in strollers. Parts like padding, liners, and covers made from bamboo provide a soft and breathable surface.
Recycled Aluminum
The lightweight, strong, and durable material is widely recyclable. Manufacturers, as well as brands, are adopting recycled ones as a sustainable stroller frame choice. The apparent benefits would include –
Recycling aluminum reduces energy consumption by 95% compared to new aluminum production.
Aluminum is lightweight and durable, making it easy to maneuver while ensuring robustness.
Recycled aluminum alloys can resist rust and corrosion, extending the expected lifespan of frames.
Recycled aluminum is commonly used in eco-friendly stroller frames. They provide excellent structural integrity, lightweight frames, and a durable base for the entire structure.
Natural Rubber
This one, harvested from rubber trees, is a renewable material widely used for tires and handles. And it’s no different for baby strollers with some great positives in store, including –
Unlike synthetic rubber, the fully biodegradable material reduces waste at the end of its lifecycle.
Natural rubber is completely free from harmful chemicals, making it secure for babies.
The material provides a smooth ride by absorbing shocks and vibrations to enhance comfort.
Modern stroller wheels and handles are extensively dependent on natural rubber. It offers durability and smoothness for your little one’s rides anywhere.
Benefits of Sustainable Materials in Stroller Manufacturing
A. Environmental Benefits
Fuel Consumption
Less carbon footprint
Lower gas emissions
Less energy consumption
Lower shipping impact
Waste Reduction
Biodegradable components
Recyclable materials
Reduced packaging waste
Resource Conservation
Renewable material sources
Reduced mining impact
Lower water consumption
B. Economic Benefits
Pricing Advantage
Increasing consumer preferences
Premium pricing potential
Brand differentiation opportunities
Regulatory Compliance
Meeting environmental standards
Carbon credit opportunities
Avoiding future regulation costs
Long-term Cost Savings
Reduced costs through recycling
Energy efficiency savings
Low waste management expense
C. Social Benefits
Health and Safety
Improved indoor air quality
Reduced exposure to harmful chemicals
Safer manufacturing conditions
Consumer Satisfaction
Alignment with values
Enhanced product experience
Positive social impact
Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Materials
A. Technical Challenges
Material Performance
Durability concerns
Structural integrity
Weather resistance
Manufacturing Processes
Process adaptation needs
Equipment modification requirements
Quality control challenges
Supply Chain Issues
Material availability
Consistency in supply
Quality standardization
B. Economic Challenges
Cost Considerations
Higher material costs
Investment in new equipment
Research and development expenses
Market Acceptance
High price tags
Education needs
Competition
C. Implementation Challenges
Technical Expertise
Knowledge gaps
Training requirements
Innovation needs
Certification and Testing
Compliance requirements
Safety standards
Performance validation
Stroller Brands to Lead Sustainable Materials
Mamazing Ultra Air
Travel light with our folding stroller. This compact stroller for travel offers portability and comfort, making every trip effortless.
Babyzen YOYO
The well-reputed stroller name primarily features aluminum frames while the fabrics have recycled polyester. Babyzen’s use of aluminum makes the stroller lightweight. It also aligns with sustainable practices and is fully recyclable. Meanwhile, recycled polyester helps reduce plastic waste and makes strollers eco-friendly and durable.
Greentom
The stroller brand takes sustainability to the next level with strollers made of 100% recycled materials. Greentom strollers primarily feature recycled polypropylene (a durable plastic alternative). Their prams have seat fabric from recycled PET bottles, making the entire stroller structure one of the most eco-friendly designs on the market.
Bugaboo Ant
Another widely appraised brand comes with its commitment to sustainability and innovation in stroller design. The Bugaboo Ant incorporates recycled polyester and an aluminum frame in the fabric, ensuring durability and sustainability. The brand also includes recyclable packaging materials, reducing their environmental impact.
Wrapping Up
Sustainable materials to make strollers are a great step towards an eco-friendly future. The widespread use of natural elements reduces environmental impact and creates safe and high-quality models. As public demand for eco-friendly products grows exponentially, brands embrace sustainable materials to stand out and gain a competitive edge.
