Herman Miller, Inc., is adding another distinction to its signature red semi-trailer trucks. The company's recognition as a U.S. EPA SmartWay Transport Partnership certified carrier is an industry first and acknowledges the efforts of its West Michigan fleet operations to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions.
The SmartWay Transport Partnership is collaboration between the U.S. EPA and the freight industry to provide strong market-based incentives that challenge companies to improve the environmental performance of their freight operations. It predicts that by 2012 ground freight transportation will consume over 45 billion gallons of diesel fuel and produce over 450 million metric tons of carbon dioxide.
Operating the fleet with concern for the environment is a practice that has been in place for years, according to Denny Meyer, Herman Miller's Fleet Operations Manager.
Meyer credits the accomplishment of receiving the highest possible score for SmartWay carrier certification to specifically seeking trucks with aerodynamic features, monitoring mileage, fuel consumption and tire pressure, and use of low friction lubricants for the engine and drive train to increase engine efficiency.
"The certification recognizes our current practices and that we're ahead of the game," he said. "We're always looking for ways to become more green."
Herman Miller's local fleet travels an estimated 40-mile radius between Holland, Grand Rapids, Rockford, and Muskegon, to company facilities and suppliers.
As a SmartWay certified carrier, its practices will be reviewed annually under the U.S. EPA Freight Logistics Environmental and Energy Tracking (FLEET) performance model, a tracking system that provides baseline environmental performance data.
About SmartWay Transport
SmartWay Transport is an innovative collaboration between EPA and the freight sector designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions, and improve energy security. Companies that participate in SmartWay Transport programs save money, reduce fuel consumption, and are recognized for their social responsibility and leadership.
About Herman Miller, Inc.
Herman Miller strives to create a better world around you--with inventive designs and services that enhance the places where people work, heal, learn, and live, and through its commitment to social responsibility. In fiscal 2008, the company's award-winning products and strategic consulting services generated more than $2 billion in revenue. Recognized both for its innovative products and business practices, in 2008 Herman Miller was again cited by FORTUNE as both the "Most Admired" in its industry and among the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in America, while Fast Company named Herman Miller among the world's "Fast 50" most innovative companies. Herman Miller trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol MLHR.