Actiu, the Spanish benchmark in the design and manufacture of workspace furniture, has long championed sustainability as a fundamental pillar of its operations. With more than 50 years of experience and a presence in more than 90 countries, this family business based in Castalla (Alicante) is an example of how industrial development can coexist in harmony with environmental care and social responsibility.

A self-sustaining technology ecosystem

An example of Actiu‘s firm commitment to sustainability is its award-winning Technology Park, a space that goes beyond being a manufacturing centre to become a truly self-sufficient ecosystem. The park is committed to renewable energies through an extensive network of solar panels that occupies more than 33,000 m² of industrial roof. It also has a rainwater collection system with gutters that channel the water into a tank with a capacity of 12,000 cubic metres. Its 200,000 m² plot of land integrates the industrial activity into a carefully designed natural environment, where a variety of Mediterranean species of trees surround the park, further reducing its environmental impact.

In 2011 its corporate facilities were recognised with the Gold level of the LEED^TM (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification promoted by the US Green Building Council® and in the successive recertifications (2017-2020-2023), it moved up in the prestigious recognition category reaching the Platinum level.

Certified commitment to the planet and people

Actiu takes the WELL certification^TM, promoted by the International WELL Building Institute^TM (IWBI), as a reference framework to evaluate and monitor the performance of its corporate facilities with the aim of generating a positive impact on the health and well-being of its occupants. The company recognises the benefits of integrating WELL^TM and LEED^TM certifications in the same project, as this combination allows the building’s performance to be optimised both from an environmental point of view and from the perspective of people’s health and comfort.

The company’s entire industrial activity is backed by its integrated management system based on international standards ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 14006, which guarantee quality, respect for the environment, occupational health and safety, as well as eco-design in all its products and processes. This solid management structure not only ensures regulatory compliance and continuous improvement, but also reinforces customer confidence and adds value to the company’s image and credibility as a responsible, committed and excellence-oriented organisation.

The vast majority of Actiu products are LEVEL® 2 certified, awarded in accordance with the latest edition of the European Federation of Office Furniture (FEMB) sustainability standard published in 2023. This certification guarantees that key aspects such as the design, production, durability and recyclability of its products meet the most demanding criteria in the sector, ensuring a high level of respect for both the environment and the health and well-being of the people who use them.

Sustainable innovation in design and production

Sustainable innovation is a fundamental pillar of Actiu’s design and production strategy, aimed at developing solutions that combine functionality, efficiency and environmental responsibility. A clear example of this commitment is the MEETIA collection, designed by Ramón Esteve, conceived under eco-design criteria that allow its useful life cycle to be extended thanks to the possibility of replacing specific pieces instead of replacing the entire piece of furniture.

Its modular and versatile design allows multiple combinations by means of clipped panels, favouring customisation and adaptability to different environments. Moreover, as it is a 100% removable system, transport, storage and reuse are optimised, which reinforces its circular and flexible character depending on the needs of each space and moment. Its innovative design has been recognised by the iF Design Award 2025, the German Design Award 2025 and the MIAW Design Award 2024.

The Second Act philosophy

Actiu’s Second Act initiative promotes the principles of the circular economy. From their office chair upholstery process, they offer a second life to leftover fabric remnants to create durable, premium quality, sustainable accessories. In collaboration with the design team at Coba Complements, a local company, they generate unique KM0 products with an approach that not only minimises waste, but also celebrates craftsmanship and innovation.

A living legacy rooted in the land

Beyond its industrial achievements, Actiu integrates cultural heritage and biodiversity into its ethos of sustainability. The Berbegal family has restored several historic structures, such as the Casa de la Venta and a 250-year-old farmhouse, transforming them into multifunctional spaces that celebrate local culture.

The company has also undertaken extensive reforestation and biodiversity initiatives, planting 5,000 indigenous plants and conserving century-old trees. Actiu even produces its own wine and extra virgin olive oil, fostering a deep connection with the local ecosystem.

Leader in the Spanish industry

Actiu‘s impact transcends environmental achievements. With more than 400 direct employees and a further 1,000 indirect employees through suppliers, the company is a pillar of the Spanish medium-sized business sector. Its founder, Vicente Berbegal, was named European Entrepreneur of the Year, and the company itself was awarded the National Design Award in 2017.

Actiu‘s most recent and strategic step in its commitment to positive impact was joining the B Corp^TM Movement last March. With this decision, Actiu reinforces its purpose as a company and reaffirms its role as an agent of change within the furniture and design sector, based on 100% Spanish activity. This incorporation into the B Corp ecosystem reflects its motivation to lead a business transformation based on sustainability, social responsibility and the creation of shared value.

In the words of Soledat Berbegal, Director and Head of Brand Reputation at Actiu, “We choose to invest in our land in a sustainable, profitable, efficient way and with our sights set on the future”. That future is that of Life Friendly Spaces (Actiu’s Business Culture Model from 2024) committed to creating environments that prioritise well-being, sustainability, inclusion and productivity.