At Shaw, we know that conservation is not enough to sustain us. That’s why we’re making the long-term investments that move us toward a future of resource independence and abundance. We’re looking hard at the resource challenges that are facing us in the coming decades, and are making the necessary changes now for a better tomorrow. At Shaw, we believe in progress by every means.

In 2002, world population exceeded 6 billion and is projected to reach 8 billion by 2025. It is expected that in the future, nearly all population growth will occur in the developing world – putting enormous strain on existing land, water, and energy resources.

At Shaw, we believe that the smallest action, when put into practice by many, can make a big difference. Our Green Edge Initiative 001 asks Shaw employees to simply turn off the lights when leaving the room. It’s an easy and effective step that leads to real resource savings. Turn off the lights | Shaw Green Edge Initiative | 001 >>

The global production and consumption of energy increased in the 1990s, with fossil fuels experiencing the greatest increase over nuclear and renewable energy sources. The global average surface temperature is increasing and sea levels are rising about 1 cm per decade. High risk storms and droughts have increased in frequency and intensity.

At Shaw, we’re exploring the use of bio-diesel as an alternative energy source for transport. We’re also innovating through gasification processes that reduce waste and produce clean energy. At Shaw, we know that resource depletion is a complex and pressing issue. That’s why we’re implementing immediate strategies and engaging in long-term research to benefit our company and our planet. Waste to Energy | Shaw Green Edge Initiative | 014 >>

Nearly half of the world’s population will experience water shortages by 2025, due to an uneven distribution of fresh water sources and the high cost of long distance transfer. About 40% of the world’s population lives in river basins with less than 2000 cubic meters of water per person per year for all purposes.

At Shaw, we’re reducing the amount of fresh water we use in our production processes, and cleaning the water that leaves our manufacturing cycle. We’re pioneering dyeing technology that uses far less water, and dyes that don’t contain toxic heavy metals. Our goal is to keep fresh water available for household use, and to keep toxins out of the environment. Water Use Reduction | Shaw Green Edge Initiative | 034 >>

Almost all deforestation is due to the expansion of agriculture. Nearly 30% of the world’s major watersheds have lost ¾ of their original forest cover, reducing water quality and increasing the risk of flood. Nearly 9% of all known tree species are at risk of extinction.

At Shaw, we’ve developed the most sustainable engineered hardwood flooring in the world. Epic is not only manufactured with recycled wood, it sets new benchmarks in performance and durability. Epic Hardwood | Shaw Green Edge Initiative | 009>>