MillerKnoll's Bold New Path Toward Sustainability and Innovation

MillerKnoll's Comprehensive Sustainability Strategy Unveiled

In an era where sustainability is paramount, MillerKnoll has launched a robust strategy aimed at making meaningful changes that benefit not just the company, but also its employees, local and global communities, and the environment. The organization aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through its innovative approach centered on carbon, materials, and circularity.

Driving Change with a Strong Mission

CEO Andi Owen emphasized that climate change is an urgent global challenge. She stated, “Our associates are working with our partners, suppliers, and customers to improve the sustainability of our processes, products, and the spaces we design.” This commitment is a testament to their core values and dedication to environmental stewardship.

Three Key Focus Areas

MillerKnoll’s sustainability efforts are anchored in three primary areas:

• Carbon: The goal is to design products with the lowest carbon footprint and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
• Materials: The company aims to incorporate sustainable, 100% bio-based, or recycled materials into its products by 2050.
• Circularity: MillerKnoll intends to create timeless and durable products with zero waste by 2050.

A Transformative Approach to Product Design

Sean McDowell, SVP of Innovation and Sustainability, highlighted the immense potential for transformation from the initial product design phase to after its life cycle. “Our refined sustainability strategy establishes clear goals to enhance carbon management, material usage, and circularity throughout our product journey.”

Commitment to Net-Zero by 2050

MillerKnoll acknowledges the importance of every decision, from material selection to energy consumption, on the planet's health. Hence, the commitment to significantly reduce carbon emissions to achieve net-zero by 2050. Their systematic, data-driven approach is ingrained in their manufacturing processes.

Key Initiatives for Achieving Net-Zero

• Sustainable Materials and Safe Chemistry: Focused on using natural and low-carbon materials while ensuring safety for people and the environment.
• Energy & Waste Reduction: A pledge to utilize renewable energy and minimize waste and water usage in production.
• Smart Packaging and Logistics: Ongoing efforts to reduce single-use plastic packaging while optimizing routing and load efficiency using advanced technologies like AI.
• Supply Chain Collaboration: Engaging with suppliers to improve efficiency and significantly reduce waste.
• Global Take-Back Program: A program to responsibly reclaim and refurbish furniture regardless of its condition.

Tangible Short-Term Goals

To support their long-term vision, MillerKnoll has established specific and measurable short-term objectives:

• Ban PFAS in North America by a designated fiscal year and globally shortly thereafter.
• Shift to 100% renewable electricity by a target fiscal year.
• Enhance material utilization across the top five commodities by a defined fiscal period.
• Set baselines and reduction goals for logistics carbon emissions.
• Aim to divert ten million pounds of furniture waste from landfills by a set fiscal target.
• Publish annual carbon footprints for the top 100 products.

Highlights from the 2024 Better World Report

The 2024 MillerKnoll Better World Report showcases significant achievements in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives:

• Energy Reduction: Approximately 75% of electricity utilized is from renewable sources.
• Waste Reduction: The company has cut total waste by nearly 50% since a specified fiscal year.
• Smart Packaging Initiatives: A 52% reduction in single-use plastic packaging has been achieved since a targeted year.
• Innovative Materials: MillerKnoll is incorporating unique materials like bamboo-based upholstery in its products.

About MillerKnoll

MillerKnoll is not just a brand; it’s a collective of dynamic design names. The portfolio features renowned brands that reshuffle the language of design for contemporary needs, steering the journey toward a more sustainable, equitable, and aesthetically pleasing future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MillerKnoll's new sustainability strategy?

MillerKnoll's sustainability strategy aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 with a strong focus on carbon reduction, sustainable materials, and circularity.

How is MillerKnoll planning to achieve net-zero by 2050?

The company plans to achieve net-zero by committing to renewable energy, utilizing sustainable materials, reducing waste, and engaging suppliers in its sustainability efforts.

What are the key areas of focus in their sustainability efforts?

MillerKnoll's focus areas include carbon management, sustainable material usage, and ensuring circularity in product design and lifecycle.

What achievements does the 2024 Better World Report highlight?

The report highlights significant advancements in energy reduction, waste minimization, and the use of innovative materials in their products.

How does MillerKnoll plan to engage with its supply chain?

MillerKnoll aims to collaborate with its suppliers to reduce waste and increase efficiency, contributing to its overall sustainability goals.

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