Giving birth to 'cradle-to-cradle': Republic Windows & Doors takes a leadership role in introducing its industry to closed-loop production.(3 Quick Questions)(Interview)

Nobody is clamoring for recyclable windows and doors. Although they would be nice, it seems there are other, more pressing environmental issues in the news and on the minds of Congress. But midsize manufacturer Republic Windows & Doors, with 750 employees, has decided it's time to introduce the fenestration industry to closed-loop production. The Chicago-based company is working with ecological design consultancy McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry to develop a cradle-to-cradle production cycle that will involve recyclable materials and other recycling-oriented design specifications. The project is funded by a grant from the city of Chicago. "We are not sure where this journey will take us, but we expect that this collaboration will change the way the window industry works, "says Republic COO Les Teichner, who recently elaborated on this project for INDUSTRYWEEK.

IW: How will Republic benefit from this strategy?

Teichner: The top line benefit will be the attraction of new customers, as well as reinforcing the benefits of Republic with existing customers. Purchasers of vinyl windows and doors that are environmentally conscious and are interested in representing products that have an eye toward societal values will look to Republic to be their supplier. Younger consumers have historically been more aware of environmental issues, and as they enter the purchase cycle for windows, our hope is that they associate Republic's brands with the cradle-to-cradle philosophy. The bottom line benefit to Republic will be profitability through continued improvements in our methods of production. When a company takes the time to thoroughly scrutinize processes for any reason, it is certain to bring to light additional areas for improvement. Most importantly, if we understand what actually goes into making a product, we can be more judicious about what goes into its manufacture and decide what we value most.

We are also focusing on the energy and dollars that are used to make a window. Homeowners replace windows every 10 to 12 years due to innovation and aesthetics. What if the design allowed for a frame that could be left in place for 50 years, but the sash ...