Inside Sherrill Furniture:
A Deep Dive into Sustainable Practices
At our core, we are committed to sustainability. We recognize the importance of preserving our environment and safeguarding its resources for future generations. Through conscious decision-making and innovative practices, we strive to minimize our ecological footprint while maximizing positive impact. Our dedication to sustainability extends beyond mere compliance; it is ingrained in our ethos. We believe that by prioritizing sustainability, we not only contribute to a healthier planet but also foster resilience and prosperity for all.
All Sherrill Brands Under One Roof
We have now consolidated all 7 brands that make up the Sherrill family under one roof in our High Point showroom, minimizing our overall carbon footprint in the downtown area. This move allows us to show the breadth of our offerings and inform visitors about our extensive history handcrafting furniture for over 80 years. Our skilled technicians take pride in practicing time-honored manufacturing techniques with the highest quality materials to hand-build each piece of furniture for your home, ensuring both durability and environmental responsibility.
A little fun fact: Sherrill Furniture was among the first manufacturers to ensure that all our suppliers eliminated and abstained from using any PBDEs in the flammability treatment of our polyurethane foam products. We diligently maintain certification letters from all suppliers to guarantee adherence to this practice.
A little fun fact: Sherrill Furniture was among the first manufacturers to ensure that all our suppliers eliminated and abstained from using any PBDEs in the flammability treatment of our polyurethane foam products. We diligently maintain certification letters from all suppliers to guarantee adherence to this practice.
It All Started with Precedent
Sherrill’s sustainable story started with its launch of the Precedent Furniture brand over 30 years ago. Every piece of Precedent upholstered furniture has been meticulously and sustainably crafted with only certified lumber and recycled steel to help preserve limited resources. The story began there, but our commitment to sustainable practices doesn’t end there.
Advanced Cushions & Textiles
Regarding our latest advancements in cushions and textiles, Tom Zaliagiris, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Precedent, reveals, "Our cushions now incorporate foam technology from Cargill’s Bioh Polyols. This groundbreaking approach replaces 20% of the petroleum typically used with soybean oil, contributing to a reduced environmental impact." Additionally, all padding utilized in the seat deck, outside arms, and backs is composed of 100% recycled polyester, with the internal polyester fiber sourced from 80% recycled material. Underlining our steadfast commitment to sustainability, Tom emphasizes, "The adhesive used to secure frame components is water-based and free from formaldehyde." He notes, "Moreover, 100% of Precedent's packaging and shipping materials are recyclable. Each year, we endeavor to diminish our environmental footprint by partnering with suppliers who share our sustainable mindset."
Our Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
As a company, we recognize the multitude of ways in which we can uphold our responsibility as environmental stewards. One such endeavor is highlighted by William Smith, vice president of operations at Sherrill Furniture Company, who sheds light on our SmartPath program with Duke Energy. Through this initiative, we were able to modernize an aging manufacturing plant with new energy-efficient LED lighting, roof systems, and HVAC equipment, resulting in $44,721 in annual energy cost savings.
Saving energy is just one example of the strategies available to factories aiming to control their carbon footprint.
Saving energy is just one example of the strategies available to factories aiming to control their carbon footprint.
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More and more furniture manufacturers are embracing sustainability and I expect to see an increase in furniture made from recycled materials and sustainably sourced wood in the near future. As manufacturers and designers prioritize eco-friendly materials and practices, more homeowners will be encouraged to seek out products and materials that have low environmental impact, reducing their carbon footprint.
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Our Approach to Renewable Resources
We are committed to utilizing renewable timber resources. At Sherrill, our ongoing efforts aim to enhance material yield and bolster the structural integrity of our products through the advancement of CNC frame construction. Our material selection process is meticulous, opting exclusively for renewable Mahogany-type materials while avoiding the procurement of materials that could jeopardize the future of the rainforest.
Exploring best practices at manufacturing facilities is our passion. We have implemented various programs such as recycling cardboard, upholstery cuttings & scraps, polyester fibers, and office paper. One notable initiative involves utilizing sawdust from our wood pallets to fuel our Hickory White facility, underscoring our dedication to sustainability in all aspects of our operations.
Exploring best practices at manufacturing facilities is our passion. We have implemented various programs such as recycling cardboard, upholstery cuttings & scraps, polyester fibers, and office paper. One notable initiative involves utilizing sawdust from our wood pallets to fuel our Hickory White facility, underscoring our dedication to sustainability in all aspects of our operations.
Certified Lumber
In our lumber selection process, we prioritize specific species: poplar sourced within a 100-mile radius of Hickory, walnut primarily from Missouri with some from western Ohio, and soft maple from West Virginia, New York, and Pennsylvania. Emphasizing proximity in product sourcing is crucial in our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.
Shorter transportation distances lead to decreased fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation methods like trucks, ships, or airplanes. Moreover, local or regional sourcing supports smaller-scale producers and businesses, fostering economic sustainability and resilient local communities. Prioritizing shorter distances in our sourcing practices not only mitigates our environmental impact but also contributes to the development of more sustainable and resilient supply chains.
Shorter transportation distances lead to decreased fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation methods like trucks, ships, or airplanes. Moreover, local or regional sourcing supports smaller-scale producers and businesses, fostering economic sustainability and resilient local communities. Prioritizing shorter distances in our sourcing practices not only mitigates our environmental impact but also contributes to the development of more sustainable and resilient supply chains.
Air Quality
Our focus on air quality involves transitioning all finishing materials and chemicals to compliant alternatives, resulting in a significant reduction in VOCs and hazardous air pollutants. This achievement is a source of pride for every employee. Monitoring and improving air quality in factories is paramount for sustainability and the well-being of our workers. Clean air is essential for maintaining respiratory health and productivity. Additionally, upholding high air quality aligns with our environmental sustainability goals by minimizing harmful emissions and pollutants released into the atmosphere.
The implementation of pollution-reducing measures, such as advanced filtration systems and optimized production processes, not only diminishes our environmental impact but also enhances air quality in neighboring communities. Prioritizing the monitoring and enhancement of air quality demonstrates our corporate responsibility, enhancing our reputation and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders. Ultimately, investing in air quality management promotes both human health and environmental well-being, furthering our long-term sustainability objectives.
The implementation of pollution-reducing measures, such as advanced filtration systems and optimized production processes, not only diminishes our environmental impact but also enhances air quality in neighboring communities. Prioritizing the monitoring and enhancement of air quality demonstrates our corporate responsibility, enhancing our reputation and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders. Ultimately, investing in air quality management promotes both human health and environmental well-being, furthering our long-term sustainability objectives.
Recycled Materials
For years, our commitment to local fire departments in Catawba, Burke, and Caldwell Counties has involved supplying wood pallets, aiding their operations, and reducing costs. This assistance extends to institutions like the CVCC fire academy and WPCC fire training center, where donated materials are crucial for "live fire training," including recruit exercises. Typically, about 24 pallets are utilized to simulate burning a 1500 sqft. house.
At Sherrill Furniture, we take pride in supporting our firefighters' training and preparedness by donating wood pallets and factory waste, yielding significant sustainability benefits. By diverting materials from landfills, we foster community projects such as DIY furniture and garden beds. This approach not only prolongs usability and reduces the need for new resources but also cultivates a culture of reuse and resourcefulness within the community. These initiatives underscore our dedication to environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and community engagement, essential for a more sustainable future.
At Sherrill Furniture, we take pride in supporting our firefighters' training and preparedness by donating wood pallets and factory waste, yielding significant sustainability benefits. By diverting materials from landfills, we foster community projects such as DIY furniture and garden beds. This approach not only prolongs usability and reduces the need for new resources but also cultivates a culture of reuse and resourcefulness within the community. These initiatives underscore our dedication to environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and community engagement, essential for a more sustainable future.
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As a Creative Director, my commitment to eco-consciousness is rooted in a belief that design can be a positive force for change. In a world where environmental sustainability is increasingly imperative, I see my role as an opportunity to not only design aesthetically pleasing products, but to contribute to a more sustainable and mindful future. In my vision, sustainability is not merely a trend but a responsibility.
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