Across Kimball International we have made enormous strides to protect the environment even as we grow, reducing our impact as we improve operational effectiveness.

Over the years, Kimball's concern for the environment has been illustrated by a number of actions and programs. We continue to focus on improving the quality of life for our employees, both within the workplace and outside in the communities we all share.

As part of the Company's organization-wide sustainability commitment, Kimball operations are dedicated to eliminating pollution generated at the source, using renewable materials, and reclaiming and recycling of materials to minimize any adverse impact on the environment.

Solid & Hazardous Waste:
In 2008, Kimball reported that it has reduced hazardous wastes from its operations by 81%, or 242 tons, since 1985. This was accomplished by instituting a number of different initiatives within the company, including the powder coating paint line, improved purchase practices, and a solvent recycling program. This solvent recycling program began in 1986, and by 2007 it was responsible for recycling a total of 810,000 gallons of solvent.

In 2004 a Powder coat operation was implemented at the Post Falls location and virtually eliminated the generation of 400,000 pounds annually of hazardous waste.

Kimball is committed to meeting the requirements of the European Union Directives; Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS), Waste, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment(WEEE), End of Life Vehicle (ELV) and Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical Substances(REACH).

Emissions:
With a commitment to clean air, in 2008 Kimball implemented complete Ultraviolet (UV) light-cure flat-line finish processes at two of the Company's wood furniture manufacturing facilities. The UV processes replaced the old-style manual spray finishing processes that utilized solvent-borne coatings, resulting in a significant reduction in VOC air emissions.

The flat-line UV application equipment applies water-based finish materials which efficiently reduces both material consumption and air emissions.

These proprietary water-based finishes are virtually VOC-free, have remarkable durability, and allow the natural beauty of veneers to show through. The reduction in VOC emissions benefits the local community and the surrounding environment.

Both of these proprietary UV wood finishes, IntegraClear™ (by National Office Furniture) and Pura™ (by Kimball Office) provide exceptional clarity and durability, while meeting or exceeding indoor air quality standards, and help customers achieve LEED credits.

Water Use:
Kimball completed two Significant Environmental Aspect (SEA) programs in 2009 that resulted in the reduction of water usage by 2,450,000 gallons per year.