HISTORY
Rigo recognized the importance of a comprehensive "Green" corporate philosophy long ago, one that spans the entire manufacturing process and the lifespan of each product. For nearly 20 years, we have been dedicated to creating stylish wallcovering products that are not only sustainable but also produced in an environmentally responsible way. At a time when much of the industry was slow to address environmental concerns, Rigo proactively eliminated toxic, solvent-based inks from all of our products, opting instead for inks free from ozone-depleting chemicals. We also launched an aggressive recycling program, significantly reducing the waste sent to landfills by recycling scrap metal, paper, cardboard, vinyl, and wallcovering trim. Additionally, we have made substantial strides in conserving water and energy at our plants, offices, and warehouses, and we actively promote the use of fuel-efficient vehicles among our management and staff whenever possible.
Water conservation
In the early 1980s, Rigo identified the need to conserve water. To address this, we opted for a closed-loop cooling system for our laminators instead of using well water, reducing our In the early 1980s, RIGO recognized the importance of water conservation and took proactive steps to address this issue. We implemented a closed-loop cooling system for our laminators, replacing the use of well water. This significant change allowed us to reduce our water consumption by over 90%, showcasing our commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.water consumption by over 90%..
Electricity
Rigo has systematically upgraded our large machinery by replacing inefficient electric generator motors with highly efficient inverters, significantly cutting electricity use during production. We have also enhanced our energy-saving fluorescent lighting with electric ballasts and installed advanced fluorescent light fixtures with motion detectors in our warehouse, ensuring lights are off when not needed. These measures have drastically reduced our electricity consumption. Additionally, we offset 100% of our energy use at the Rigo plant by purchasing renewable energy, further minimizing our greenhouse gas emissions..
>Transportation and Export
Our plants and warehouse are strategically situated in close proximity to local and interstate highways, as well as to the port, in Newark, New Jersey. In fact, the distance from our warehouse to the port is less than 10 miles. Needless to say, this greatly reduces fuel consumption and emissions from material shipped to domestic and international destinations.
PROVEN RELIABILITY
– WITH AN ECO-FRIENDLY FOCUS Rather than introduce products which haven’t withstood the test of time, Rigo has focused on perfecting traditional fabric-backed vinyl, the wallcovering that has a proven track record - while striving for the most eco-friendly product we could produce. We are proud of the progress we have made, which includes: Recycled content Eligibility for LEED credits Actual fabric backing No toxic solvents or heavy metals Mildew resistant* Eco friendly packaging Dependable durability of vinyl Proudly made in the USA
Product composition
While preserving the traditional composition of vinyl and genuine fabric backing, our wallcovering products now include recycled content. By incorporating recycled materials, we reduce the need to extract and process virgin resources, which in turn helps lower the pollution associated with these activities. Additionally, this approach decreases the amount of waste sent to landfills. Removing toxic solvents from our wallcovering products benefits the environment and enhances consumer health by minimizing ozone depletion and reducing the potential for smog through the reduction of VOC emissions. Product Development Continuously seeking ways to enhance the sustainability of our products, Rigo introduced the ReVive Eco-Logical Wallcovering option, featuring fully recycled backing for an even greener product. This wallcovering also uses water-based inks and is free of heavy metals. The combination of sustainable manufacturing practices and the long-lasting durability of this product makes it an ideal choice for any “Green” decorating project.
RECYCLED CONTENT
A STRONG EMPHASIS HAS BEEN MADE TO USE VINYL AND BACKING WITH THE MAXIMUM RECYCLED CONTENT. AND UNUSABLE VINYL IS RECYCLED TO USE AS PACKAGING MATERIAL FOR OUR RIGO™™
LEED Eligibility
While individual products cannot be LEED certified, certain products help contribute toward projects
seeking LEED certification, when combined with a multitude of other products and additional factors.
(Visit www.usgbc.org for more detailed information.)
Our wallcovering products can contribute to LEED projects in the following categories:
MR 4.1
Recycled Content, 10% (post consumer + ½ pre-consumer)
MR 5.1 (CI)
Regional Materials, 20% Manufactured Locally (for projects within a 500 mile radius of Wayne, NJ.)
EQ 4.1
Low-Emitting Materials, Adhesives and Sealants (when using low emitting adhesives)
Vinyl wallcovering is extremely durable, generally considerably more resistant to scratching and tearing
than alternate coverings. They have a long life cycle, typically lasting three to five times longer than
other surface treatments, such as paint. Low-cost maintenance consists of gentle cleaning to remove
accumulated dirt, grease and most stains without damage.
Vinyl wallcovering also has a relatively low potential for odors or emissions and have not been identified
as a source of "sick building syndrome." In fact, studies show considerably higher levels of volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) from paint than from vinyl wallcoverings. The initial odor in vinyl
wallcovering also tends to dissipate much faster than the odors of most paints.
We remain committed to our mission of Enviromental responsibility and are continuously seeking new
ways to be proactive in producing wallcovering products with the least amount of impact on the
Enviroment – without compromising on style and quality. Our customers can look forward to
additional product lines with Enviromentally sound attributes in the near future. Specific objectives
and targets include:
EMS: OBJECTIVES AND TARGETS
1. Obtain and Maintain NSF 342 Certification to encompass 100% of our products.
2. Monitor air emission and facility operation for low VOC output.
3. Monitor water quality levels to ensure discharge water is acceptable.
4. Reduce energy consumption and purchase renewable energy to reduce Green House
Gas for 100% of energy used at the facility.
5. Reformulate Materials to eliminate chemicals of concern.
a. Reduce the VOC emissions by using water based versus solvent inks. Completely
achieved.
b. Constantly researching new and alternate materials to make high performance
wallcovering,
with reduced Enviromental impacts
6. Remove chemicals of concern as per CapProp65 – 100% achieved.
7. Create product loops to keep material out of landfills.
8. Reduce scrap levels to reduce cost and the need for more virgin vinyl.
9. Increase the recycled content in all aspects of the product.
10. Leftover ink will be returned to ink room and revamped into ink for upcoming product.
Our goal is to recycle 85% of all ink.
11. Improve lighting to use less electricity and reduce the carbon footprint.
12. Replace motors with variable speed drives to save energy and reduce cost.
Benefits of vinyl
We remain committed