YKK AP leads way as first fenestration systems manufacturer to earn Cradle to Cradle certification for an architectural product


Austell, Ga. (February 4, 2008) –YKK AP announced today that it has become the first entrance, storefront, curtain wall, and window manufacturer to earn Cradle to Cradle^SM(C2C) certification for a product. The company’s ThermaShade™ sunshade system was awarded C2C certification. C2C certification evaluates the eco-effectiveness of a product by assessing the materials used in its production as well as the production process itself, including the use of renewable energy, water conservation and stewardship, and the manufacturers’ social responsibility. In its evaluation of building projects for LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, the USGBC (U.S. Green Building Council) now offers credits specifically for C2C certified products. Projects seeking certification under the LEED® rating system can now earn an "Innovation in Design" point by using Cradle to Cradle certified products. ThermaShade sunshades help architects design sustainable buildings by optimizing the use of natural daylight, reducing energy costs and improving the comfort level for building occupants. “By specifying ThermaShade sunshade systems with the C2C designation, architects, developers and building owners can take LEED certification to the next level,” said Oliver Stepe, senior vice president of YKK AP. “They now have the ability to recognize not only ‘green’ products but also manufacturers who are truly environmentally responsible.” To qualify for C2C certification, products and their manufacturer must be evaluated by McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC), creator and sponsor of the C2C brand. YKK AP has a long-standing commitment to sustainability. YKK AP’s Dublin, Ga., plant is a model of environmentally responsible industrial practices. The plant is ISO 14001 certified, recycles 100% of aluminum waste on-site, captures and eliminates 93% of all solvent emissions from its paint line, and uses state-of-the art techniques for waste water treatment. YKK AP America Inc. manufactures architectural aluminum entrances, storefronts, curtain walls, and windows for office buildings, universities, schools, institutional, and condominium structures. YKK AP America is based in Austell, Ga. To learn more about YKK AP and its products, please visit www.ykkap.com.

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