Ideal Bite

Is work a pain in your [enter body part here]?

10.23.2007

Submitted by tmeronek on Tue, 10/23/2007 - 12:10am.

The Bite:

Sit down, and listen up: Most office chairs are made without your physical health in mind (much less the earth's), so next time you're in the market for a new one, seat your royal moneymaker in a sustainable throne.

The Benefits:

Eco-friendliness. Innovative designers are wheeling out chairs that incorporate eco-materials like recycled steel and sustainable wood.
Better back support. In a recent poll, 35% of office workers reported experiencing pain from sitting. Our picks were created with ergonomics in mind.
Sleek design. If the ratty old chair you found in the alleyway is on its last leg, replace it with something more aesthetically pleasing.
Achieving LEED certification. Green office chairs contribute to the U.S. Green Building Council's eco-efficiency rating for buildings.

Personally Speaking:

The San Francisco Biter team switches off between their Ikea office chairs and balance balls.

Wanna Try:

Ikea Markus Swivel Chair - a reasonably priced option from a company that forgoes PVC and uses only sustainable wood; more options here ($199).
Hermann Miller Aeron Chair - this way-comfy work of art is made from 66% recycled materials such as aluminum and steel, with 94% recyclable parts ($949).
Steelcase Think Chair - made with up to 44% recycled materials and available in 12 colors, from the world's first LEED-certified factory. Also: recycled guest chairs ($239-$719).
Twenty Gauge Steno Chair - adjustable vintage steel chairs restored to working condition; customizable with your choice of fabric ($625).
HealthyComputing - tips on better desk habits.