So, what do sustainably manufactured office chairs have to do with Earth Day? Well, the connection starts with a senator from Wisconsin and a nation that was ready to listen to the environment.
It was the ’60s. A time of significant change – the civil rights movement, war protests, a space race, and geopolitical tensions just to name a few of the more popular topics. But it was also the beginning of public awareness for the environment and living organisms in a different way than ever considered by previous generations. A junior senator named Gaylord Nelson had been concerned about the impacts of industry on the environment in the United States for a while now, and then it happened. In January 1969, he and many others saw the devastation caused by an enormous oil spill not far from 9to5 Seating’s future home, off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. This disaster proved to be the pivotal moment that generated a groundswell of interest in the idea of proactively protecting the environment, and sparked a grassroots movement that would lead to the founding of Earth Day in 1970.
Supported by over 20 million Americans, the creation of Earth Day was an event that brought out the best in humanity. It was a unique alliance between Republicans, Democrats, rich and poor, urbanites and farmers. There was broad, non-partisan support for the concept of protecting our common home in the universe. In fact, the Earth Day movement led to the creation of the EPA, National Environmental Education Act, OSHA, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and the Federal Insecticide Act. Collectively, these laws have protected millions of people and brought about a consciousness for protecting our world, which in turn, has helped spark a desire for many corporate citizens to also do their part.
Enter 9to5 Seating. Going back to the family roots as a company, we believe in the principles of Earth Day. So how does 9to5 Seating practice this with more than just a “feel good” corporate statement on sustainability? It starts with an intrinsic commitment to do business the right way, and it follows through with industry-leading certifications and partnerships which prove out 9to5 Seating’s desire to operate with respect for our planet. Certifications include:
- LEED Gold Certified corporate headquarters
- LEVEL 1 Certified
- Greenguard Gold Certified
- EPA Wise Program member
In addition to these prestigious partnerships and certifications, 9to5 Seating offsets its energy consumption with wind generation credits. Check out our production in real-time here.
Beyond these sustainable manufacturing initiatives, 9to5 Seating is also proud to partner with One Tree Planted, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that focuses on reforestation by planting one tree for every dollar donated. This organization is doing measurable reforestation work, including right here in California where 9to5 Seating is headquartered.
At 9to5 Seating we manufacture the best chairs and seating products in the industry, in a way that we can be proud of as corporate citizens and individuals. Learn more about our sustainability initiatives here. Happy Earth Day 2022!
