MUSCATINE, IA – The HON Co. announced it is a sponsor of the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2007 Solar Decathlon, which showcases the environmental ideas of aspiring architects, engineers and interior designers. As a contributing sponsor, HON is donating furnishings to two homes and also providing several common areas with its newest products. Additionally, the company will host educational presentations during the course of the competition. The HON Company donated furnishings to two teams: the University of Missouri – Rolla and the University of Illinois.

“We’re proud to be part of all of the excitement that surrounds this important event,” said Don Mead, HON's vice president of marketing. “We look forward to working with the promising Solar Decathletes – tomorrow's engineers, architects and designers – in the shared quest to chart a greener course for our world.”

During the event, Oct. 12-20 in Washington, DC, the 20 teams participate in 10 contests to determine an overall winner. Using only solar energy, the teams generate enough electricity to run a modern household. With an eye on energy efficiency, the students carefully choose the systems, products and appliances used in their houses.

On Oct. 15 and 16, Mindy Billingsley, HON's environmental marketing manager, will present a 30-minute educational seminar, "Empowering You: Environmental Solutions for Office Interiors."