Water Supply Vital to Carpet Industry

Time for the state of Georgia to take action for its water future by Werner Braun ~Water supply vital to carpet industry

In his June 18, 2011 column titled "Time for the state to take action for its water future" for the Dalton Daily Citizen, Carpet and Rug Institute president Werner Braun discusses Georgia’s ongoing quest for a solution to the state’s threatened water supplies; specifically, a proposed “swap” with the state of Tennessee for water from the Tennessee River. Braun suggests Georgia could find inspiration in the carpet industry’s conservation efforts and by concentrating on the environmental, social, and economic aspects of sustainability.
“There is no question that the manufacture of carpet is an intensive industry process, requiring substantial consumption of water and energy. There’s also no question that the disposal of post-consumer carpet has been of increasing environmental concern. That’s why it is so important for CRI and its members to have a proven commitment to doing what’s right for the environment.

…The carpet industry is reducing its environmental footprint, with significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants, water consumption reduced by 30 percent, reduced energy consumption, reduced reliance on “dirty fuels” and much greater use of renewable energy sources, and a large increase in use of post-consumer waste materials in carpet production.

…The carpet industry is the largest manufacturing industry in Georgia, employing more than 70,000 nationwide, with an annual payroll of more than $4 bllion. Annual carpet mill sales exceed $14 billion and represent a significant economic impact to Georgia and its various communities. The mills have invested more than $400 million to improve sustainability.

For more information, see the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Sustainability Report.

So what will become of the recent proposal for a water swap? Time will tell, but by identifying the environmental, economic and social responsibilities involved with implementing a water action plan we can decide the best option for Georgia. Because a sustainable operation is a journey, not a destination, and it’s time we take action for such a future.”

Thank you, Werner.

What's your perspective on the best option for Georgia and its water future?

~Bethany