The Architectural Woodwork Manufactures Association of Canada and the Woodwork Institute have launched the SAW certification program to lead the industry into a sustainable marketplace.
With demands for green products and practices still rising, SAW (Sustainable Architectural Woodwork) will certify that best and green practices have been used by a company or in a product or project.
A certification for the people, processes and products in the industry, SAW will create a more environmentally friendly industry through a certification that will be recognized by customers, suppliers and architects.
AWMAC’s Greg Hipperson, of Hy-Grade Millwork in Saskatoon, Sask. says AWMAC and WI created the program to set a new standard for the industry.
Clients are already demanding green products and practices and through SAW the industry will be able to present a united and comprehensive initiative.
“It’s the right thing to do, it is good for the planet, good for people and good for business,” Hipperson says. “We just launched and already there has been very good response. The program is ahead of its time, but I think it will really pick up and be a positive for the industry.”
SAW is not particularly arduous and Hipperson says many companies are already doing many of the things required for certification.
For example waste reduction. It makes sense to reduce waste from a business standpoint and from an environmental perspective as well. If waste is diverted from landfill for other uses it benefits everyone and it saves money. His company is already doing it and he suspects many others are as well.
“I don’t expect everyone to meet all the criteria, at least not right away, and that’s not really necessary. That’s why we have different levels of certification,” Hipperson says. “But over time companies can increase their level of certification and I believe for many it will actually be quite easy to get started.”
The program also includes two types of certification – company certification, which is being launched now, and product certification, which will be developed and released at a later date.
Under the company certification program, architectural woodwork manufacturers and suppliers to the woodwork industry can apply for SAW certification for their companies. SAW certification will complete the "green package" through a credible, recognized and affordable program that will assist and distinguish companies that are committed to broad environmental practices.
SAW certification is compatible with other green program (e.g. LEED) and incorporates emerging "best practices" standards that are credible, clear and measurable. For more information go to: www.sawcertified.org