Horton announced that the company has attained ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Certification, which applies to Horton facilities in Roseville, Minn.; Britton, S.D.; and Carmel, Ind. ISO 14001:2004 is a global specification covering processes and practices necessary to limit environmental impact through significantly reduced energy and raw materials consumption and lower production of waste materials. The standard was created to help all types of organizations protect the environment, prevent pollution and improve their environmental performance.
“One of our customers encouraged us to become ISO 14001-certified,” says Tom Wollin, director of quality. “We expedited the process, which typically takes 12 to 18 months, completing it in six months. Now, we are encouraging our suppliers to join us in becoming ISO 14001-certified. We’re particularly proud of this achievement.”
ISO 14001:2004 is recognized in 159 countries as the industry standard for environmental management systems. The certification was established in 1996 to meet the growing need for an independently verified, standardized measurement of an organization’s environmental impact.
Horton’s environmental commitment includes recycling paper, cardboard, metals and electrical components. Water generated from washers is recycled, and water from equipment is recirculated to preserve natural resources. At its facilities, Horton tracks energy use and has installed smart switches. The company has a substantial remanufacturing program, refurbishes and reuses existing components, and uses ozone-friendly refrigerants.
“Our manufacturing and other processes are as eco-friendly as we can make them, and we continue to seek innovative ways to make our engine airflow management systems as efficient and effective as possible,” says Wollin.