We are living in times of urgent environmental and social change. Flooring manufacturers are exploring ways to create a healthier, fairer and better future. Here’s a look at five companies making an impact for a better world.

Circular Polymers by Ascend, a recycler of post-consumer carpet, recently launched Cerene, a line of recycled polymers and materials made from the company’s proprietary carpet reclaiming technology. 

Shaw Industries Group, Inc. (Shaw) announces that its ReWorx hybrid flooring won silver in the post-consumer recycled material category at the 2023 Edison Award event held April 20. 

The strategic alliance strengthens Ecore’s position in tire and buffings collection, while aiding in the procurement of raw materials for the company’s flooring and surfacing products. 

The agreement calls for Shaw to supply Encina with more than 2 million pounds of carpet manufacturing waste per year, reinforcing Shaw’s ongoing commitment to sustainability which includes its Cradle to Cradle Certified commitment to product circularity.

This CalRecycle directive follows several months of requests by CARE for CalRecycle approval of an assessment increase to extend program solvency.

Responsible material sourcing, renewable energy, closed-loop water systems, and Tarkett's recycling program are just a few of the initiatives helping the company achieve global sustainability goals set for 2030.

Shaw Industries announced that the LVT and SPC products manufactured at the resilient Shaw Plant RP in Ringgold, Georgia, are now recyclable through the company's Re[Turn] Reclamation Program.

Aware, which is a new type of flooring for use in both residential and commercial spaces, has an authentic wood appearance, is based on natural and recycled materials, and has a durability that can be compared to that of traditional vinyl floors.

CARE Executive Director Bob Peoples said recent advances in plastic recycling technology promise a new world of uses for recycled carpet material.