Stewardship Program

The Importance of the Environmental Stewardship Program

It’s no secret why “Going Green” has been both an upwards trend and one of the biggest environmental challenges facing our population. Many manufacturing companies are embracing environmental sustainability for not only environmental reasons, but also to reduce costs. Some of the challenges the cabinet manufacturing energy faces include air pollution, energy conservation and waste management.

When it comes time to purchase furniture or cabinetry for the home, there are endless options out there. Between styles, finishes, materials and more, choosing these products can take some time and research. You want products that not only look good, but are good for your home and the environment. By purchasing ESP certified cabinets, you are not only helping to improve your home, you’re doing your part to help protect the environment.

5 Reasons You Should Purchase from an ESP Manufacturer:

 

 

1. Air Quality – ESP certified cabinets are made with materials and finishes that greatly reduce emissions from the cabinets.
2. Product Resource Management – The materials used in making the cabinets are sourced in an environmentally friendly way.
3. Process Resource Management – In making the cabinets the process is environmentally friendly. Process waste is tracked, reduced, and recycled and there is a focus on energy conservation.
4. Environmental Stewardship – The manufacturer has a written policy statement concerning a firm commitment to environmental quality. In addition, the facility may have an environmental management system, requires review of vendor’s environmental policies, uses renewable/recycled materials, and ships cabinets through an EPA SmartWay Transport partner.
5. Community Relations – The manufacturer has a commitment to the community through service and/or charitable giving.

About the Environmental Stewardship Program

For those seeking cabinets manufactured with more eco-friendly practices, KCMA Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) certification can help guide you to the right sources. Manufacturer certification is awarded annually based on compliance in five categories: air quality, product resource management, process resource management, environmental stewardship and community relations. It is the environmental certification program that specifically focuses on kitchen and bath cabinets.

Introduced in 2006, KCMA developed the ESP to encourage practices that benefit the environment and communities served by cabinet manufacturers. The ESP goes beyond other environmental programs by taking a holistic approach to certification, holding the industry to high standards for their products, forest sustainability and manufacturing processes. The voluntary certification program provides a tangible way for cabinet manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

Environmental Stewardship Program FAQ

What are the values embedded in ESP certification?
ESP certification reflects the following beliefs:

• Forests not only provide outstanding environmental benefits, but also provide an array of renewable wood products and derivatives.
• We encourage the continued and expanded use of forest products.
• We are committed to promoting conservation and the intelligent use of our natural resources.
• We support and encourage responsible forest management practices that promote sustainability and result in long-term economic and environmental benefits.
• We are committed to educating our members and customers in the global wood products community about environmental and forestry issues.