Discover Karndean Evolve

11 December 2023

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4 min read

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A Journey Towards Sustainability and Well-being

At Karndean, we're embarking on a transformative journey with a profound commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and the well-being of our planet and people. For over five decades, our flooring products have been crafted with nature as our muse, mirroring the timeless beauty of wood and stone. Now, more than ever, we're taking bold steps to protect the environment that inspires us.

Earlier this year, we welcomed Jamie Shaw as our Global Head of Sustainability, marking a pivotal moment in our sustainability journey. Jamie, with over 20 years of experience in corporate sustainability, is steering our efforts towards a more sustainable future.

Karndean Evolve embodies our comprehensive sustainability model that outlines our objectives, strategies, and values across six fundamental pillars:

Confronting Climate Change: At Karndean, we're taking proactive measures to significantly reduce our carbon footprint by 2030. Our dedication to sustainability includes adopting energy-efficient practices and embracing renewable energy sources. The aim is to achieve a science-based target of at least a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. We're committed to transparency, offering Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for all products, giving consumers a clear understanding of their environmental impact throughout their life cycle.

Individual Health and Well-being: Our products are more than just beautiful; they prioritise the health and well-being of those who interact with them. Ensuring indoor air quality and safety is paramount. Our flooring is free from heavy metals, unsafe phthalates, and certified for post-installation indoor air quality. Our commitment extends to using water-based or solvent-free adhesives to ensure very low VOC emissions, contributing to healthier indoor environments.

Sustainable Resource Use: We are dedicated to responsible resource management by conserving natural resources, integrating recycled materials, and designing products with recycling in mind. Up to 50% of recycled PVC in our backing layers is sourced from post-production waste. This initiative not only reflects our commitment to sustainability but also significantly reduces our reliance on raw materials derived from crude oil.

Inclusion and Diversity: At Karndean, inclusivity and diversity are woven into our corporate culture. Our commitment to a welcoming and diverse workplace celebrates contributions from all backgrounds. This dedication is evident in our policies on environmental protection, responsible sourcing, and our contributions to local and global communities.

Supply Chain Transparency: Our factories prioritise the use of recycled materials and maintain certifications for environmental and social responsibility. We're committed to certified manufacturing adhering to ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 standards. From eco-friendly product packaging to fair treatment and safe conditions for workers, we ensure transparency and accountability across our supply chain.

Education: We empower our employees to think sustainably and innovate through continuous education and training programs. Collaborations with organisations like the Green Building Council of Australia and New Zealand enable us to contribute to the development and training of professionals in the design, construction, and built industries, fostering a culture of sustainable thinking and action.

Karndean Evolve represents not just a new commitment to sustainability, but a holistic commitment to creating a positive impact on the environment, communities, and the well-being of individuals. Each of these pillars contributes to our mission of sustainable and responsible business practices, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

It’s a new day. And we’re ready to create a better tomorrow.

Sustainable manufacturing. Complete supply chain transparency. Closed-loop product life cycles. And an even stronger commitment to fair and inclusive workplaces.

It’s a continuing journey, and there are no shortcuts. But we know now’s the time for everyone to begin taking bigger steps. Ours is a promise to think differently, act decisively, and create real change.

It’s a promise to Evolve.