Forbo Flooring Systems is proud to introduce a new sustainable vinyl solution – Sphera Elite b+.
Containing 43% recycled and bio-based content in its PVC, Sphera Elite b+ takes the manufacturer’s commitment to people and planet even further, with a low embodied carbon and increased recycled content.
Forbo has also refreshed its wider Sphera collection with updated colour palettes, each reflecting modern design trends.
First introduced in 2016, Forbo’s Sphera homogeneous vinyl is a premium, vibrant and durable solution that is perfect for heavy-traffic areas, particularly those found within the healthcare and education sectors. Comprising three ranges: Element, Energetic and Elite b+ (bio-based), the updated collection is created to suit any design vision, from subtle and seamless to bold and expressive. Whether the focus is on lasting performance, inspiring design or enhanced sustainability, Sphera delivers.
Within this launch, Forbo is delighted to introduce Sphera Elite b+ to the market, a brand new, bio-based range. Looking to enhance the sustainable credentials of its vinyl offering and bring it in line with market demands, the manufacturer has incorporated innovative bio-based materials into the production of this collection, such as used cooking oil, giving the range a bio-based and recycled content of 43%. Manufactured in factories using 100% renewable electricity and embracing efficient manufacturing methods, this range has one of the lowest embodied carbons for a homogeneous sheet vinyl in the market of 2.94kg CO2 e/m2, and a reduced carbon footprint of nearly 50% (A1-A3) compared to standard Sphera.
This new range comes in 18 natural colourways, with the colour palette inspired by the product’s innovative and sustainable sprit. While its flecked appearance helps to create interesting and unique interior designs, as well as offering dirt hiding properties.
In addition to the launch of Elite b+, Forbo has also refreshed its entire Sphera portfolio. The Sphera Element range now contains 51 items, seven of which are multicoloured, with 33 new designs and more eye-catching accent chips added to its offering. Known for its rich colour range and thoughtfully chosen steps from light to dark tones, the collection has been reshaped to expand its natural palette and harmonise with contemporary trend tones. The range can also be combined with Forbo’s other products for integrated design schemes.
Sphera Energetic has also been updated, with an even greater variety of designs available across its three different visuals: Uni, Vivid and Shimmer. Looking to achieve a balanced harmony between colours, accent chips and visual effects, there are a range of aesthetics on offer, from calm and natural to those that embrace a more playful, youthful and expressive character.
Donna Hannaway, Head of Marketing UK & Ireland from Forbo Flooring Systems, said: “In line with the market’s need to reduce embodied carbon and increase the use of bio-based materials, our new Sphera Elite b+ collection ticks all the boxes. With an impressive 50% reduction in embodied carbon compared to the previous Sphera collection and incorporation of bio-based materials, mainly recycled cooking oil, the range combines beautiful design with enhanced environmental performance.
“As well as innovating material sourcing and production processes, we’re always looking to update our product offering in line with the latest design trends. Having first launched Sphera in 2016, the collection has seen some updates over the years, but this is by far the biggest change we’ve made to-date. Whether the focus is on real life performance, resistance to cleaning chemicals, scratches and stains or enhanced sustainability, Sphera will deliver.”
With low emissions, phthalate-free manufacturing and a high volume of recycled content (ranging from 34% to 43%), the Sphera collection contributes to better indoor environments. The SMART-top surface finish and its consistent application ensures the highest resistance to chemicals, scratches and stains, providing superior all over protection and easy cleaning – ideal for busy areas like schools or hospitals.
