Whether we are tackling a complex local or global issue, it takes myriad,
diverse perspectives and experiences to create sustainable solutions. That is
why Shaw created the sustain[HUMAN]ability® Leadership
Recognition Program back in
2019:
to recognize the wide range of organizations that are putting people at the
heart of sustainability — what we call sustain[HUMAN]ability.
Each year, we look to highlight the work of a wide range of organizations —
local non-profits, regional businesses, global conglomerates, membership
organizations, education institutions, and others — because we recognize that we
each have an important role to play in creating a better future and a better
world (see the organizations recognized in
2021).
A world in which we collectively value and invest in the health, wellbeing, and
success of all people and our planet; a future that’s safe and safeguarded for
generations to come.
Each of the organizations being showcased in this year’s program is a leader in
its own right and offers something from which we can all learn.
The organizations Shaw is recognizing this year are (in alphabetical order):
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The AIA (American Institute of Architects) strives to drive positive
change through the power of design. The organization developed the
Architecture & Design Materials
Pledge to inspire a
shift in how architects and designers evaluate the products and finishes
that they specify on a daily basis. The Pledge sets a holistic vision of
truly sustainable building materials and encourages architects and designers
to choose materials that support human health, ecosystem health, climate
health, and social health and equity in a circular
economy to
inspire a shift in how architects and designers evaluate the products and
finishes that they specify on a daily basis.
-
Appalachian Botanical Co. makes premium body care, aromatherapy,
culinary and home goods products using lavender it grows and honey it
harvests on reclaimed coal mine land. The West Virginia-based company
hires local area residents who often face significant barriers to
employment. ABCo’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and second-chance
employment
will resonate with those seeking high quality, organic and environmentally
and socially responsible
products.
-
ChemSec, the International Chemical Secretariat, is an independent
non-profit organization that operates globally to advance safer chemistry.
Founded in 2002, the organization engages the work of chemists, political
scientists, business experts, communicators and others. Through independent
research, cross-border collaboration and practical tools, the organization
advocates for progressive legislation and sustainable corporate chemicals
management, and offers guidance to companies committed to changing the way
they work with chemicals.
-
The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute is dedicated to
powering innovation for the circular economy through products that have a
positive impact on people and planet. Through the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products Program,
the Institute sets the global standard for products that are safe, circular
and made responsibly through its focus on material health, product
circularity, clean air and climate protection, water and soil stewardship,
and social fairness.
-
Cushman & Wakefield, a global real estate services firm, developed
Experience per
SF™
— a proprietary tool that gives insight into workforce engagement and
experience. Launched in 2020, the tool helped organizations identify what
works and what doesn’t by measuring employee experience and performance as
they shifted to work from home. And as the world begins to emerge from the
pandemic, the tool continues to provide information that helps create a
positive human experience.
-
HOK is a global design, architecture, engineering and planning firm. The
company’s human-centered design approach prioritizes health and wellbeing —
helping people thrive physically, mentally and socially in the built
environment. HOK ensures sustainable material selection on all interiors
projects, whether pursuing certification or not. This simplified framework
that addresses embodied
carbon,
green
chemistry
and sustainable sourcing is yet another example of the firm’s commitment to
lead on sustainable design.
-
Metropolis is an award-winning architecture and design-focused media
company. Through its print and editorial coverage, virtual and in-person
events, awards programs and advocacy initiatives, Metropolis speaks to the
future of architecture and design. With a commitment to a sustainable, just
and nurturing built environment, the company strives to help the
architecture and interior design community make people’s lives better and
safeguard life on this planet — including through the Interior Design for
Positive Impact Pledge and Climate Toolkit for Interior Design.
-
re:loom — a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in Decatur, Georgia and
a program of the Initiative for Affordable Housing — employs and
empowers unhoused, refugee and low-income individuals who craft beautifully
designed products out of recycled materials. The organization provides paid
on-site job training for weavers, who earn a stable salary, 100 percent
healthcare coverage, and opportunities to engage in the organization’s
operations — helping them to weave a better life, while caring for the
planet.
-
ToxNot is a software company with a mission to improve health and
sustainability across global supply chains by streamlining the chemical
transparency process. Toxnot provides an efficient
system
for manufacturers to import chemicals data, provide insight into their
hazard profiles, report on the results and create safer products.
Organizations use Toxnot to improve supplier data access; save time
automating their compliance, sustainability and circularity goals; and
delight customers with timely responses.
-
Walmart launched its “Built for Better”
program in 2021 to
provide an easy way for customers to identify products that are built for
better — for people, communities and the planet. Icons designate products
that have achieved independent, third-party standards for promoting personal
wellbeing and reducing impact on the environment.
As part of this recognition program, Shaw will profile these 10 organizations in
a Sustainable Brands® blog series throughout the remainder of the year
to showcase their efforts and inspire others to find new ways to invest in the
health and wellbeing of the planet and its people.
Get the latest insights, trends, and innovations to help position yourself at the forefront of sustainable business leadership—delivered straight to your inbox.
Vice President of Global Sustainability & Innovation
Shaw Industries
Kellie Ballew is the VP of Global Sustainability for Shaw Industries Group, Inc. — a global provider of sustainable floor coverings and the world’s largest carpet manufacturer. A 25-year company veteran, Kellie has a long history of partnering with Shaw leaders to leverage market insights and technical expertise to inform, influence, and support business decisions.
Published May 16, 2022 2pm EDT / 11am PDT / 7pm BST / 8pm CEST