Paper manufacturers are large consumers of energy. Like most industries, paper mills have relied upon a combination of thermal and electric energy which is generated by burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas. This process releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, a primary greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Because paper is produced by a very resource and energy–intensive process, we believe that it is essential to conserve energy, support emission–free energy projects and support responsible forestry practices as actions to help mitigate climate change
- In addition to supporting renewable energy, Mohawk commits significant resources to minimize harmful emissions from our mills. State-of-the-art steam plants have been installed to greatly reduce the amount of air pollutants, and air emissions have been capped at a level that will remain set regardless of production increases. We also conserve energy throughout our organization and participate in state-sponsored energy research and conservation programs. These savings result in continuous efficiency improvements and greenhouse gas emission reductions that have earned Mohawk a reputation for environmental leadership.
- Every paper manufactured by Mohawk carries the “Mohawk windpower” designation. This means all of the electricity used in Mohawk’s manufacturing operations is matched with Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from Green-e certified windpower projects. Today Mohawk purchases enough RECs from renewable energy market leaders to match 100% of the electricity we use in our operations . These RECs yield emission reduction benefits equal to planting thousands of acres of forest.
- Mohawk also offers a number of products that are made carbon neutral within our production processes. In addition to purchasing enough Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to match 100% of the electricity used in its operations, thethermal energy used in the manufacture of this paper is offset through the company’s purchase of carbon credits that fund renewable energy or emission‐reduction projects. Through this process, Mohawk is seeking to manufacture these papers with a net zero climate impact.