Smart homes are getting smarter—not just in technology but in sustainability. Today’s homeowners are more conscious than ever about energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials, and reducing their carbon footprint. For integrators, that means sourcing products that not only enhance the in-home experience but also align with these values.
Sonos, a leader in home audio innovation, is stepping up to the challenge. Their 2024 Listen Better Report showcases a bold commitment to sustainability, integrating environmental responsibility into everything from product design to packaging and supply chain practices.
For custom integrators, partnering with a brand that prioritizes sustainability isn’t just about meeting consumer demand—it’s about staying ahead of industry trends, improving efficiency, and adding long-term value to client projects. Here’s how Sonos is leading the way, according to the report.
Eco-Friendly Product Design: Less Waste, More Impact
One of the biggest environmental challenges in home tech is the lifespan of products. Many devices become obsolete quickly, leading to unnecessary waste. Sonos takes a different approach—designing for longevity.
Their latest models, including Sonos Ace, Arc Ultra, Move 2, Era 100, and Era 300, incorporate recycled plastics into key components without sacrificing sound quality. Additionally, their Certified Refurbished Program extends product life, allowing customers to purchase tested, high-quality Sonos gear with a lower environmental impact.
Sustainable packaging is another key focus. Sonos states that 98% of their product packaging is sustainably sourced, with a shift to FSC-certified kraft paper and zero virgin plastic in their new headphone line, Sonos Ace.
For integrators, this means offering products that contribute to a lower carbon footprint, an increasingly important factor for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Energy Efficiency: Smarter Power Consumption
The smart home industry is built around convenience, but it’s also responsible for higher energy consumption. Sonos recognizes this and is making strides in power efficiency.
Their new Sub 4 speaker consumes nearly 50% less idle energy than its predecessor, while portable products like Sonos Ace and Roam 2 feature optimized charging and auto-pause functionality to reduce unnecessary power usage.
This matters for custom installers who are designing whole-home audio solutions. Energy-efficient devices not only reduce environmental impact but also help clients save on energy costs in the long run—an attractive selling point for high-end home automation projects.
A Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
Sustainability isn’t just about making products greener—it’s about rethinking the entire supply chain and operations. Sonos is targeting carbon neutrality by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2040, addressing emissions from product manufacturing, distribution, and energy consumption.
As part of this effort, the company is:
- Optimizing logistics to reduce emissions from shipping and transportation.
- Investing in renewable energy and high-quality carbon offsets to neutralize impact.
- Improving supply chain efficiency, including using 14% less carbon in manufacturing compared to previous years.
For integrators working on LEED-certified or eco-conscious smart home projects, Sonos provides a compelling audio solution that aligns with broader sustainability goals.
At the end of the day, homeowners expect their technology to be intelligent, seamless, and increasingly sustainable. For integrators, this presents an opportunity to differentiate themselves by choosing brands that prioritize environmental responsibility without compromising performance. It’s a future-proof business move. As the industry shifts toward more sustainable practices, working with brands like Sonos ensures long-term relevance and adaptability.
