According to the company, this investment of more than $20 million in carpet recycling illustrates the manufacturer's continued commitment to converting what has historically been seen as waste into a resource. Shaw will create at least 70 new full-time jobs as the facility reaches full capacity. With this scalable and flexible solution in operation, Shaw will retire its Evergreen Augusta facility in favor of new technology that better meets current and future market needs. 

 

“Shaw continues to innovate and expand our portfolio of carpet recycling solutions," said Vance Bell, Shaw chairman and CEO. "Evergreen Ringgold represents a significant step forward and is enhanced by what we’ve learned over the past decade at Evergreen Augusta—and from our strong working relationships with post-consumer carpet collectors throughout the country. Evergreen Augusta served Shaw and our industry well. Evergreen Ringgold enhances the long-term impact we can have, including the ability to recycle a wider array of materials.”

 

Located in what was previously Shaw Plant 37—a rug distribution center, Evergreen Ringgold began operations in May and has processed nylon and polyester fibers showcasing opportunities for previously untapped markets for recycled material. Evergreen Augusta will cease operations on Sept. 1. DSM Chemicals North America operated the Evergreen Augusta facility. Shaw will work with its two associates employed at the plant to find other opportunities within the company. As a joint venture partner with DSM Chemicals North America in the operation of Georgia Monomers Co., Shaw remains committed to the relationship and the production of raw materials on the Augusta site.

 

Guided by Cradle to Cradle principles, Shaw has led the establishment of infrastructure to reclaim and recycle as much end-of-life carpet as possible. Shaw has reclaimed and recycled more than 800 million pounds (360 million kilograms) of post-consumer carpet since 2006, according to Bell. Over that time, Shaw has introduced a portfolio of products and processes to support its customers’ sustainability priorities. 

 

With the rise in demand for polyester carpet, new processes were paramount to Shaw’s ability to find viable solutions for carpet that has reached the end of its useful life. According to the company, Evergreen Ringgold creates a high purity post-consumer recycled material that can be used in a broad range of applications. Joining the company’s elutriation, carpet-to-energy and waste-to-energy processes, Evergreen Ringgold expands and diversifies Shaw’s portfolio of recycling solutions.

 

“We will continue to invest in new sustainability innovations to support our robust reclamation and recycling program,” said Paul Murray, vice president of sustainability and environmental affairs at Shaw. “That includes maintaining our steadfast focus on designing with the end in mind and finding the best possible solutions for carpet already in the marketplace. “ 

 

Shaw’s continued investment in recycling technology demonstrates this approach to sustainability, including the company’s commitment to Cradle to Cradle designed products and a more circular economy. As Shaw’s portfolio of recycling investments continues to expand, so does its portfolio of Cradle to Cradle certified products. In 2014, 66% of the sales of Shaw manufactured products are Cradle to Cradle Certified, according to Murray.

 

For more information, visit sustainability.shawinc.com.