Sep 8 2008
BrassCraft, a leading plumbing manufacturer -- renowned for innovation -- continues to heighten their ecological commitment with new streamlined packaging and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
"We have a number of initiatives underway that solidify our commitment to the environment," says Jeff Jollay, Vice President of Marketing and Product Development, BrassCraft. "This is just the beginning. We are committed to developing environmentally-smart products, packaging and processes, because we know from experience -- it's smart business."
Packaging materials supplied to BrassCraft are provided by Forest Stewardship Council and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (R) (SFI) certified suppliers. Using materials provided by these certified suppliers supports the worldwide growth of responsible forest management. The conservation continues with an average of 30% recycled materials used in the production of their shipping cartons.
By using recycled materials and decreasing total packaging material weight, BrassCraft has reduced both their fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The company continues to work toward accomplishing more efficient manufacturing methods at their plants in Lancaster, Texas; Corona, California; Brownstown, Michigan and Thomasville, North Carolina.
"We've invested hundreds of thousands of dollars to install state-of-the-art water treatment equipment in our plating operations," says Scott Kay, V.P. Operations, BrassCraft. "Our company has historically achieved clean-wastewater levels that exceed the government regulations, but our goal is to go further yet and create a water-conserving system."
In Lancaster, the installation of energy-efficient, T5 high-density halogen lighting has resulted in savings of approximately 430,000 kilowatts per year. Plans are underway to continue this initiative at five other BrassCraft facilities.
With the belief that environmentally safe is economically sound, BrassCraft supply stops have always been made of 100% recycled brass in the form of bar stock. Their copper risers are manufactured from at least 75% recycled material. Now, BrassCraft is bolstering their Green Initiative by taking it a step further, exploring new materials and processes that enable a lighter environmental impact.
"We believe that it's part of our responsibility as a leading manufacturer to address these issues and opportunities on an ongoing basis," reiterates Jollay. "It's the right thing to do for our customers, our community, and our planet."