Aiming for 100% Sustainability

As more and more companies are looking to implement and embed sustainability initiatives into their business plans, one company stands out as a beacon on how to be totally committed to changing the way business is done. InterfaceFLOR, which was founded by the late Ray Anderson, embarked on a mission in the mid-90′s at becoming 100% sustainable by the year 2020 where it would achieve the goal of completely eliminating any negative impact on the environment across its entire enterprise.

The company is squarely focused on selling great products (carpet tiles) that incorporate functionality with popular design and is based on an “innovative manufacturing processes to reduce waste and eliminate toxins from [its] products and facilities… and to completely eliminate any negative impact [it] may have on the environment by 2020.”

The lessons for all businesses, as expressed by Mr. Anderson, concentrate on eight major points that includes a “cultural shift” that needs to occur where the way we view business practices moves from “just seeking profit” to adopting a new paradigm that truly recognizes our place in the industrialized world.

From a branding perspective, InterfaceFLOR maintains a wide catalog of carpet products that are modern, fashionable and high quality. The environmental aspect of sustainability is not at the forefront of the company’s marketing efforts as Interface recognizes that the consumer is not buying the product because it comes from a sustainable business, rather,  it has to meet their needs.