HIGH POINT, N.C. – Entries are now being accepted for the 2012 Sage Award.

Now in its fifth year, the Sage Award program was designed to recognize environmental leadership at home furnishings and bedding companies. Entries are sought from companies that have not only reduced the environmental impact of their operations, but are also on a pathway of continual environmental improvement.

The 2012 winner and up to two finalists will be announced during the October 13-18 High Point Market in High Point, N.C. The winner be featured in a spotlight video designed to capture the spirit of their unique efforts to balance people, planet and profits.

The 2012 winner and finalists will be honored at the home furnishings industry’s 2013 Sustainability Summit February 20-21 in Raleigh, N.C., sponsored by the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA).

Sage Award entrants are asked to complete a detailed questionnaire that explains their sustainable business practices and environmental accomplishments. The questionnaire also asks applicants to provide specific examples of corporate social responsibility and requests information that demonstrates that the company is financially secure.

The Sage Award program is open to all manufacturers, retailers and suppliers to the home furnishings and bedding industries. The 2012 entry form can be found at www.SageAward.org. Entries are submitted electronically.

There is no cost to enter the Sage Awards. Entries must be received via email by midnight Eastern Standard Time on Friday, August 31, 2012.

In addition to an overview of the Sage Award criteria and the official entry form, the Sage Award website features videos spotlighting last year’s Sage Award winner, Sauder Woodworking, and finalists Leggett & Platt and Crypton Fabrics, as well as the 2010, 2009 and 2008 winners and finalists.

The 2012 winner and both finalists will receive complimentary registrations to the 2013 Sustainability Summit where they will have the opportunity to share both challenges and accomplishments on their journey toward more sustainable operations.

“The Sage Award provides an excellent opportunity for companies to receive well-deserved recognition for successful environmental initiatives,” says Patricia Bowling, vice president of communications for AHFA. “Implementing sustainable practices throughout a home furnishings or bedding company is never a one-man or one-woman show,” Bowling notes. “It takes commitment, involvement, enthusiasm and persistence at every level, and winning the Sage Award is a great way for your entire workforce to be acknowledged for their efforts.”

Companies do not need to be members of AHFA to enter the Sage Awards.

Source: American Home Furnishings Alliance