What is Worry Free Plastics?
A breakthrough organic enzyme embedded into our products during manufacturing that allows our material to convert into nutrient-rich soil
Regenerative Depolymerization
Leaves behind nutrient-rich soil rather than harmful microplastics
Lasting Durability
Our products maintain 100% of their original properties and generational durability
Smart Technology
Stays dormant, activating only if the product is disposed of in an end-of-life environment
Indoor & Outdoor
Function perfectly indoors and outdoors, year-round, in any environment
How does it work?
Smart Technology That Knows When to Activate
Production
Worry Free Plastics technology is embedded within our proprietary polymer material during manufacturing
Normal Use
Product strength and durability are unchanged, maintaining all of its original properties
Activation
The enzymes lay dormant within the polymer until reaching an end of life environment (e.g. landfill)
Regeneration
Once activated, microorganisms will consume the polymer in few years
End Result
Nutrient-rich soil without microplastics at the end-of-life that captures CO2
Designed for generations of use with the same iconic durability you expect and now engineered to return to nature if it ever reaches end-of-life. Elegance, sustainability, and timeless modern design unite in perfect harmony.
Microplastics Free
Fully Recyclable
Indoor & Outdoor Quality
Regenerative Material
Lasting Durability
Award Winning Design
Facing the Hard Truth:
Furniture Waste
The Challenge We're Addressing
Despite our best intentions, the furniture industry faces a sobering reality. Each year in the United States:
12.2 million tons
furniture waste is generated annually
80%
of discarded furniture, about 9.8 million tons, ends up in landfills
Only 0.3%
of furniture waste is recovered for recycling
2.38 million tons
furniture waste is combusted annually, releasing emissions into our atmosphere
Why We're Doing This
Furniture That Leaves Nothing Behind
At Heller, we've always been proud that our furniture is recyclable and made from recycled materials. But we faced a hard truth: despite best intentions, a significant percentage of furniture eventually finds its way to landfills.
Before our technological advancement in partnership with Worry Free Plastics, even our exceptional pieces would leave a trace—which didn't sit well with us. For years, we worked tirelessly to pioneer a solution that aligns with our foundational belief: extraordinary design should enhance lives and protect our planet.
Our furniture is built to last generations. We never want to see a Heller piece discarded. But if that day ever comes, we've ensured it will return to the earth ultimately, leaving nutrient-rich soil instead of microplastics.
This isn't just an eco-initiative—it's the natural evolution of our commitment to thoughtful, responsible, modern design.
FAQs
Will my furniture start to deteriorate if I leave it outdoors?
Absolutely not. Worry Free Plastics Technology only activates in specific anaerobic (oxygen-deprived) end-of-life environments, which is the exact definition of a landfill. Rain, sunshine, and normal outdoor conditions will not trigger the transformation. Your furniture will maintain its strength and beauty outdoors for decades, just as Heller has always promised.
Does this affect the warranty or durability?
Not at all. We maintain the same warranty and quality standards you expect from Heller. The technology remains dormant during normal use and only activates if the product finds itself in an end-of-life environment such as a landfill.
Can I still recycle my Heller furniture?
Absolutely. All Heller furniture remains 100% recyclable through our closed-loop program. We still encourage recycling as the preferred end-of-life option. We build our products to last generations, so hopefully, their lives never end!
Is this technology safe for my home?
Yes. The organic enzyme remains completely inert during normal use, is non-toxic, and only activates in specific end-of-life environments like landfills.
Which products include Worry Free Plastics Technology?
As of April 1, 2025, most Heller Furniture products will incorporate this technology. You'll see the Heller + Worry Free Plastics certification mark on the packaging of all included products. Currently, our Hellerware collection (except the Ice Bucket) does not incorporate this technology.
How does this affect the iconic design of Heller furniture?
It doesn't—and that's the beauty of it. The technology is embedded within the material itself, with absolutely no change to appearance, texture, or performance. It's the same premium Heller quality designed by world-renowned designers and featured in museums worldwide.