The KCMA's Environmental Stewardship program has really begun to impact the Kitchen and Bath Industry. More and more customers are looking for their dream kitchen that will function for them now and save the Planet for the future.
"Going Green" has become a worthwhile business opportunity for many companies.
The Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) allows manufacturers to earn ESP certification based on their compliance to guidelines in 5 areas including:
- Air Quality
75% of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, and plywood used in the cabinets must meet the formaldehyde emission level of the California Air Resources Compwood ATCM and must be third-party certified to meet low formaldehyde emission standards
75% of hardboard used in the cabinets must be third-party certified to meet low formaldehyde standards.
75% of cabinets must be finished domestically. Finishes emit no greater hazardous air pollutants than allowed by local plant operating permits - Product Resource Management
75% of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, and hardboard used in cabinets must contain 100% recycled or recovered fiber content
Manufacturers utilize an annual, written training plan to educate their hardwood suppliers of their preference for purchasing certified lumber
Hardwoods, softwoods and plywood purchased are certified through a recognized sustainable forestry program - Process Resource Management
Manufacturer has a comprehensive recycling program for process wastes
Manufacturer has a program for tracking and reducing process wastes with documented goals and reports
Manufacturer uses process by-products to generate alternative energy
Manufacturer has a documented energy conservation program - Environmental Stewardship
Manufacturer is required to have a written policy stating a firm commitment to environmental quality
Manufacturer has an Environmental Management System
Manufacturer reviews environmental practices and policies of its key vendors and contractors
Manufacturer has a documented program that promotes the use of renewable/recycled materials - Community Relations
Manufacturer demonstrates community involvement and leadership through service or charitable organizations
Manufacturer observes all federal, state, and local environmental requirements
Points are awarded for meeting each of these criteria. Manufacturers must earn at least 80 of a possible 105 points and must earn points from each category to be certified.
Nearly 120 cabinet manufacturers have already earned ESP certification and more are on their way to completing the review process.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
ESP certified cabinets provide you with a way to showcase your commitment to the environment and knowledge of green products. By using ESP certified cabinets, you can differentiate yourself as an eco-friendly builder and qualify for points from green building programs.
Environmental responsibility is becoming increasingly essential in home building; according to the NAHB, 50% of all new homes will be green by 2010. In light of this trend, it is advantageous for your business to use environmentally-friendly building products like ESP certified cabinets.
You can feel confident you are providing your future homeowner with the most responsible choice in cabinets, while benefiting your business and the environment.
HOW HICKS CAN HELP...
All of the cabinet lines we are currently associated are working with the ESP to make themselves "green".
Fieldstone has already fulfilled it's guidelines, and there are ESP certified.
Executive Kitchens is our greenest cabinet line. They not only have fulfilled their ESP guidelines, but they use waterborne finishes, construct their boxes out of 3/4" formaldehyde-free adhesives, and are Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified.
EK's EcoFriendly cabinets are truly Green.
Legacy: They are working with the ESP to become certified.
Homecrest: They are ESP certified.
Other elements to the kitchen can and will also be green..
Countertops with recycled content, concrete with recycled glass, glass, Icestone & Paperstone are getting a lot of buzz lately, and they are all available here. DuPont Terra Collection may contribute to earning poinbts under the LEED building rating system developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC).
Flooring, Lighting, Appliances, & Plumbing fixtures are other areas that going green as well.
Going green and protecting our environment is a fast-growing trend. It has led to an increase in eco-friendly products, but more education is critical to maximize the profit potential.
Contact Kristin if you have any questions about what Hicks has to offer for your environmentally conscious customers.
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