Certifiable Proof of HomeCrest Cabinetry's Commitment to the Environment

2/7/07 -- HomeCrest Cabinetry has long held a strong concern for consumers and the environment. HomeCrest's efforts in the environmental side recently received a major endorsement from the cabinetmaking industry's trade organization, the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA).

HomeCrest Cabinetry wins the Award

HomeCrest Cabinetry recently joined a select group of cabinet manufacturers recognized for its ongoing commitment to environmental issues. HomeCrest received notification of its compliance with standards established by the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association's NEW Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP), earning ESP certification.

According to Bryan Bucklen, environmental specialist with Goshen, Ind.-based HomeCrest Cabinetry, the company is as proud of its commitment to environmental issues and sustainability as it is its quality cabinetry. "Our job is to push that environmental envelope, to help set that standard and do more than compliance," Bucklen said.

"Hopefully, the certification will reflect that we're not just a run-of-the-mill cabinet company, that we are ahead of the curve and demanding other cabinet makers do the same. That should compel others to step up to the plate."

To achieve its ESP certification, HomeCrest underwent a rigorous compliance review that explored five key categories: air quality, product resource management, process resource management, environmental stewardship and community relations. The categories include 18 different criteria totaling 105 possible points. Those applying for certification must accumulate at least 80 points to gain certification.

Designed to encourage industry policies and practices that benefit both the environment and the well being of society, the Environmental Stewardship Program awards the official ESP designation and grants the ESP Seal, which can be displayed on all products of HomeCrest and other companies earning certification.

HomeCrest will enjoy all the benefits of its ESP certification. In addition to the use of the ESP seal on products and in advertising and promotional efforts, those benefits include the honor of being one of the first to participate in the new program; recognition on the Web site of KMCA, www.kmca.org; and access to KMCA-provided technical assistance and advice to help ensure continued compliance.

The 50-year-old Reston, Va.-based .Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA), with more than 350 members across the U.S., announced in late August creation of its Environmental Stewardship Program, which grants certification to cabinet manufacturers demonstrating sound environmental practices and sustainability.

Dedication to these ideals is vital to the future of cabinetmaking, because sustainability of renewable wood products is essential to the industry's survival, growth and success. The industry owes its current excellent economic health to its long-standing commitment to positive environmental management systems developed over many years.

For more information about HomeCrest Cabinetry, or to locate a dealer, visit www.homecrestcab.com

Contact:
Mary Lou Denny
Walt Denny Inc.
630-323-0555
marylou@waltdenny.com

or; Mindy Brooks
Manager, Advertising & PR
HomeCrest Cabinetry
574-535-9372
mbrooks@homecrestcab.com