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Interstyle's Environmental Initiatives
Glass Tile was first introduced as a means of recycling freight damaged glass. When first developed by Interstyle 25 years ago, it was never imagined that a new segment of the tile industry would be created. Glass tile has grown to become an internationally significant wall and floor finish material, the popularity of which continues to increase at an unprecedented rate.

Commitment to a Healthy Environment

Interstyle has taken significant actions to minimize the effects of our production on the environment. Each stage of our processing has been reviewed to determine that waste is minimized, that any reusable materials are recycled and that energy conservation measures are in place.

Some examples of the environmental procedures that are in place are;

  • using packaging materials that contain a high percentage of recycled content
  • packaging of incoming materials such as cardboard and paper is completely recycled
  • using heat from kiln exhaust for drying of bisque and coatings
  • recycling wash water from the glazing production line in a closed loop water system
  • rain water harvesting for all industrial purposes

Leadership by example:

  • In 2002 Interstyle moved to a facility located within a short walking distance to mass transit and convenient bike routes.
  • Interstyle's 85,000 square foot facility located in Burnaby was slated for demolition when it was purchased in 2002. Interstyle then set out to work with Burnaby City Hall to retain the industrial zoning and rehabilitated the structure and improved services to increase energy efficiency and improved life and safety systems for its workers. Such as:
 
  • The roof system was replaced with a white membrane to reduce urban head gain
  • Installation of opening skylights improves air quality and cut down lighting requirements
  • Factory lights have been replaced with the most energy efficient system available and provided task lights whenever possible
 

While many manufacturers have moved offshore in order to take advantage of reduced labor costs and a lower regulatory burden, Interstyle remains committed to manufacturing all of its products in North America and providing its employees with decent wages and an exellent working environment.

Interstyle strongly believes that any of its operations that impact on the environment should be critically reviewed and improved regularly. Interstyle remains committed to finding better ways to innovate, manufacture, recycle and reduce its energy requirements while keeping a watchful eye on the future instead of takin gin any short term gains.