Knoll Healthcare Solutions
Knoll and Sustainable Design
Today, more organizations than ever are paying attention to how their operations affect the environment around
them. However, the complexity of healthcare facilities presents many unique challenges. In addition to infection control
standards requiring strict cleaning procedures, the constant use of medical technology and equipment impacts
the already high cost of a 24/7 operation. It is no wonder that hospitals rank among the highest types of facilities in
energy consumption.
As a result, many hospitals are embracing products that help to reduce waste, conserve energy and maximize
resources. These products can have a direct effect on the overall environmental health of the hospital, impacting both
patients and caregivers.
Our Lubin Manufacturing Facility in East Greenville, PA,
is LEED® Gold certified under the Existing Building pilot
program and an OSHA VPP Star site. In 2008, Knoll
initiated a program to offset greenhouse gases at this site
with electricity generated by wind power.
Knoll is a leader in policies and practices designed to protect
the biosphere, conserve natural resources and reduce waste.
Our environmental sustainability programs focus on three
principal areas:
+ Climate change
+ Third party certification
+ Environmentally sensitive third-party materials, products and
manufacturing processes
We are proud of our leadership position on climate change.
An important part of this effort centers on our commitment to
the Chicago Climate Exchange, Inc. (CCX®), a legally binding
greenhouse gas reduction program. Knoll was the first contract
furniture manufacturer to become a member of CCX®, which
was the result of our participation in the nonpartisan Energy
and Climate Change Group of the Clinton Global Initiative.
This initiative leads our efforts to conserve energy.
Our ambitious environmental program also includes
meaningful partnerships with the:
+ GREENGUARD® Environmental Institute
+ Forest Stewardship Council
+ Institute for Market Transformation to Sustainability
+ U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED®) program
+ International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Our Life® and Chadwick™ chairs are rated Sustainable
Gold under the SMaRT© Standard. This means that they
feature: minimal materials; recycled and recyclable
content; low emissions; environmental fabric; and easily
replaceable parts.
