Tarkett Hosts Environmental Protection Encouragement Agency Founder, Michael Braungart, as Part of Ongoing Commitment to Drive Industry Performance Standards
CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio, Nov. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In its continuing commitment to sustainability and eco-innovation, Tarkett, a global leader in innovative and sustainable flooring and sports surface solutions, recently hosted an evening in Washington, D.C. with Dr. Michael Braungart, scientific director and founder of the Environmental Protection Encouragement Agency (EPEA) and co-founder of Cradle to Cradle® (C2C) framework.
Through his efforts, Dr. Braungart works with clients to apply C2C methodology to design new processes, products and services. C2C is the basis for creating a beneficial footprint. The evening provided an interactive forum for U.S.-based architects and designers with a passion for sustainable design and building to connect with one another and gain a greater understanding of the EPEA's view on material transparency, material optimization and chemical assessments. Tarkett also shared information about an exciting new transparency tool developed in conjunction with the EPEA, which provides an intensive content and material assessment for building products. The assessment is based on the precautionary principles. The tool will thoroughly address ingredient disclosure, possible health and environmental impacts as well as post-use considerations. Members of the architecture and design community as well as representatives from United States Green Building Council (USGBC) also participated.
"Sharing the knowledge and unparalleled experience of Dr. Braungart with American architects and designers is an important part of our efforts to encourage the use of sustainable materials in the design process and improve performance standards throughout the industry," said Diane Martel, Vice President of Environmental Planning and Strategy for Tarkett North America.
Working in tandem with the scientific institute EPEA, Tarkett is focused on developing and manufacturing products that are "good" for people and the environment, and that can enter into a technical or biological cycle at the end of the use. EPEA values are based on intelligent, aesthetic and eco-effective design and are dedicated to optimizing products within the C2C framework. Tarkett's history as an innovator in sustainable solutions dates back to 1957 when a recycling program for vinyl tile was created to reduce waste in landfills. The company has extended its efforts globally and in 2011, Tarkett began applying C2C principles in partnership with the EPEA in the eco-design of products across all global brands, moving toward a goal of circular, closed-loop design and manufacturing.
Tarkett is represented commercially in North America by the Johnsonite and Tandus Centiva brands. For more information about Tarkett's sustainable initiatives worldwide, visit www.tarkett.com. To learn more about the company's North American commercial and residential line of flooring products, visit www.tarkettna.com and www.tandus-centiva.com.
About Tarkett
Tarkett is a global leader in innovative and sustainable solutions for flooring and sports surfaces. With a wide range of products including vinyl, linoleum, carpet, rubber, wood & laminate, synthetic turf and athletics track, the Group serves customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. With almost 11,000 employees and 30 production sites, Tarkett sells 1.3 million square meters of flooring every day, for hospitals, schools, housing, hotels, offices, stores and sports fields. Committed to sustainable development, the Group has implemented an eco-innovation strategy and promotes circular economy. Tarkett net sales of 2.3 billion euros in 2012 are balanced between Europe, North America and fast growing countries. Since January 2007, Tarkett has been jointly owned by the Deconinck family (50 per cent) and private equity funds affiliated with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. (50 per cent). To learn more about Tarkett: www.tarkett.com.
SOURCE Tarkett
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