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The TharpeRobbins Company, Inc. has another environmental accomplishment to add to its already impressive roster: The Attleboro, Mass. facility is no longer required to operate under a Restricted Emissions Status. Due to its low emissions rate of less than one ton per year, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has determined that it’s no longer necessary.
“This new classification puts the Attleboro facility on a more responsible and eco-friendly level with the DEP,” says Joseph Viveiros, vice president of manufacturing for the TharpeRobbins Company, a global leader in the managed employee reward and recognition industry. “Among manufacturers, it is a coveted position due to the high standards of the organization.”
In annual inspections by the DEP since 2005, TharpeRobbins has controlled up to 99 percent of all emissions including volatile organic compounds, hazardous air pollutants and particulates. In addition, because of the minimal emissions, the new status enables TharpeRobbins to operate six paint spray booths for manufacturing emblems, jewelry and insignia.
The company has a number of additional environmentally-friendly practices already in place including:
Water Recycling System – In order to ensure a 98.3 percent reduction in water usage, TharpeRobbins created a state-of-the-art, closed-loop process that reduces annual water usage from 500,000 gallons a week to just 650 gallons a week.
Toxic Use Reduction – With a goal of reducing the chemical content in the company’s wastewater by 98 percent, the company’s closed loop process is designed to prevent chemicals from returning to the environment.
Biodegradable Packaging – To help save our landfills, most packing peanuts are soy- or corn-based and will dissolve. A majority of the trays used in packaging are made of biodegradable foam instead of traditional plastic.
Recycling – Recycling all paper in the TharpeRobbins’ facilities produces an average of 12 to 20 tons a year. According to the National Recycling Coalition, each ton (2,000 pounds) of this recycled paper can save 17 trees, 380 gallons of oil, three cubic yards of landfill space, 4,000 kilowatts of energy, and 7,000 gallons of water. Collection bins are placed in all facilities to recycle waste paper, cans and bottles. All new packing material is 100 percent recycled and all incoming packing materials are reused.
Lighting – Light bulbs in all facilities are non-mercury bearing and recyclable. The company has a ‘100% Lights Off Policy’ throughout all facilities to conserve energy when rooms are not in use.
“As an industry leader, TharpeRobbins is committed to pursuing sound environmental practices,” says Viveiros. “With many of these initiatives already in place, we are constantly seeking new ways to further minimize our industrial footprint.”
The privately-held TharpeRobbins was created through the February 2007 merger of The Robbins Company, founded in 1892, and The Tharpe Company Inc., founded in 1981. Customized programs include products ranging from personalized jewelry to fine art, electronics, sports equipment and outdoor merchandise. The company also offers rewards through local and national services, entertainment and recreation.
The company headquarters are located on a 25-acre campus in Statesville, N.C. and include an extensive showroom and state-of-the-art distribution facility. The Attleboro, Mass., operations include creative services, software development and jewelry manufacturing. The company is ISO certified.
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