To enter AHFA’s Sustainable by Design program Highland House first had to implement an environmental management program known as EFEC, which required all facilities to analyze the environmental impact of their operations. This resulted in improved management of resources and raw materials, reduced energy and water consumption, reduced waste and improved recycling efforts.

Sustainable by Design required the company to extend its culture of environmental stewardship throughout its global supply chain. For each key area on a checklist, Highland House established goals and a system for evaluating annual achievement. These key areas included:

• Supply chain management, including assisting suppliers worldwide in the development and implementation of sustainability programs;
• Using eco-friendly materials, including low VOC/low HAP coatings, certified lumber and low-emitting UF resins;
• Global climate impact, including calculating a baseline carbon footprint.
• Social responsibility, including policies defining the company’s commitment to workers’ rights and community relations in all areas of the world where Highland House does business.