Anthro’s leadership has always recognized the need to shrink the company’s carbon footprint. In 1994 the employees took a more active role by forming a volunteer group to encourage and challenge the company’s internal practices and increase recycling through the company.
Initially known as the “Recycling Team” this employee-run committee began with a focus of recycling as much of our corporate waste as possible to shrink our carbon footprint. Over time the group has been renamed the “Green Team” to better reflect its Reduce/Reuse/Recycle mission.
In our community
Anthro is recognized by Washington County for our recycling results that exceed county and state targets.
In our operations
- Over 70% of waste materials are recycled – wood fiber & sawdust, steel, plastics, shrink wrap, and cardboard. (Approximately 635 tons in 2009!) All materials are recycled locally.
- Anthro’s products incorporate steel made with more than 30% recovered material
- When selecting vendors, the purchasing department considers a vendor’s green commitment and their responses to a sustainability questionnaire
- Many Anthro products meet the international standard for Reduction of Hazardous Substances, or RoHS, to both reduce their use in manufacturing and keep those substances out of landfill.
- Materials are purchased locally whenever possible to reduce our carbon footprint.
- Renewable power keeps the plant and office running strong.
- Food waste from the employee break rooms is recycled in compost bins.
- A variety of recycling stations are located throughout the plant and office.
- To reduce paper waste, both sides of documents are used for in-house printing.
- Employees who own a hybrid vehicle receive a set monthly stipend for gas.
- The use of public transit is strongly encouraged through a monthly reimbursement benefit.
- For the bike enthusiasts who commute on a regular basis, they enjoy a benefit that pays them a stipend each month.
- All obsolete computers and technology equipment are recycled at least two times a year.