For decades, high-gloss finishes in wooden coffins
relied on polyester-based varnishes, known for
their brilliance but also for their environmental and
health impacts. Anticipating stricter environmental
regulations, ARCAE led an ambitious R&D+i project
with its technological partners to develop a water-
based high-gloss varnish that matches the hardness
and shine of traditional coatings – without polluting
resins or solvents.
This new ecological formulation, applied through
robotic systems powered by solar energy, combines
efficiency, precision, and sustainability. The result:
a zero-emission production line that eliminates
polyester, polyurethanes, and solvents, setting a new
environmental standard in the funeral sector.
Combining tradition, technology,
and sustainability
Founded in 1955, ARCAE is one of Spain’s leading
coffin manufacturers – and the only company in the
country with certified 100% ecological production.
ARCAE has achieved a milestone that sets a new
benchmark in the funeral industry.
In July 2025, the company announced that it had become
the first in the funeral sector to reach fully ecological
manufacturing. Through a determined commitment
to innovation, ARCAE has eliminated polyester resins
from the high-gloss finishes of its coffins, drastically
reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions
and improving workplace safety and hygiene.
“This transformation positions ARCAE as a reference for
sustainability in the funeral industry,” says Jorge Morales,
Director of International Expansion at ARCAE.
Traceability and Compliance with EUDR
Beyond ecology, ARCAE has also implemented
a comprehensive traceability system that
ensures full compliance with the EU Deforestation
Regulation (EUDR). Each coffin is monitored
throughout its production cycle using RFID
technology and QR codes, allowing real-time
tracking of every component – from certified timber
origin to final assembly.
This system guarantees transparency, legal
compliance, and sustainability verification,
providing customers and institutions with complete
confidence in the ethical and environmental integrity
of every ARCAE product.
Health, Safety and Sustainability
The transformation brings multiple benefits:
• Cleaner air: VOC emissions are reduced to nearly
zero, improving air quality both inside and outside
the plant.
• Safer working environment: With no toxic vapors
or flammable materials, the risk of accidents and
exposure to harmful chemicals is minimized.
• Renewable energy: 100% of the electricity used
by ARCAE comes from renewable sources – 55%
from its own solar plant and 45% from certified
green suppliers.
A New Benchmark for the Funeral Industry
After 20 months of technological development and
14 months of installation, ARCAE now operates
with 100% ecological production and full digital
traceability, becoming both a pioneer in Spain
and a European reference for sustainable and
transparent manufacturing in the funeral sector.
“We’ve proven that it’s possible to produce
100% ecological and traceable coffins without
compromising quality or aesthetics,” concludes
Morales. “ARCAE is leading the way toward a more
sustainable, safe, and responsible future for the
funeral industry.”
GREEN BREAKTHROUGH
IN COFFIN
MANUFACTURING
By Jorge Morales, Director of expansion, ARCAE – Grupo Unicoffin
28
No. 112 – WINTER 2025 | THANOS MAGAZINE
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