November 7, 2006 [Cohoes, NY] –"What can I do?"  When the topic of sustainability arises, that is the first question most often asked by designers.  Sustainability can be an incredibly complex concept, subject to many interpretations. "Where to begin" is often a challenge.    The new Strathmore Sustainability Portfolio, features stories about companies that are pioneers in environmental and social stewardship. It is intended to inspire a deeper dialogue among designers about getting involved and leading their own sustainability initiatives at work, at home and in communities across the countries. Mohawk Fine Papers Inc. asked Kansas City-based Willoughby Design Group to explore this important topic. The result is a thoughtfully designed handbook, itself a model for sustainable design and print production.  Not only does the book stand for "use only what you need," it is printed on the recently relaunched Strathmore Script, which offers a full range of sustainable paper choices.  In addition to real-life examples, the book offers valuable tools for applying sustainable thinking into daily life, such as the infamous framework by William McDonough, known as the Hannover Principles.   The handbook features six stories from six companies, selected for the company's compelling philosophical value and the way its sustainability practices permeate its culture and identity. The companies featured in the handbook include (in order of appearance):    Tricycle. This firm creates digital carpet simulations for interior designers on 100% recycled paper. Rather than present clients with actual carpet samples (which ultimately end up in the landfill), these carpet "samples" are simply recycled waste.  Sampling accounts for as much as 240 million pounds of carpet waste dumped in landfills each year.    Monterey Bay Aquarium.  Its innovative Seafood Watch Program helps consumers and businesses make purchasing choices that are healthier for ocean wildlife and the environment.  The program’s success show’s the power of print communications to inspire change.   Herman Miller.  With a "never say never" approach to sustainability, Herman Miller found an innovative, natural way to bring indigenous wildlife to its 48-acre GreenHouse, designed to set a new standard for environmental responsibility.    Aspen Skiing Company.  One of the few companies to not only take environmental action to prevent climate change but also to engage in political advocacy and public dialogue about global warming and energy policy, unafraid of running the risk of being labeled "greenwashers."   Hewlett-Packard. Its HP Planet Partners is a return-and-recycling program that makes it easy, convenient and free for customers to recycle HP inkjet and LaserJet print cartridges. To date, HP has recycled 750 million pounds of computing hardware and printing supplies, the equivalent weight of 1,500 jumbo airliners.    Seventh Generation. This leader is transforming the home cleaning industry into a new paradigm for health and well being.    The Strathmore Sustainability Portfolio includes examples of business collateral and identity materials supporting each organization's sustainability initiatives. Because sustainable paper choices reflect a company's commitment to mindful business practices, the portfolio is printed on the newly reformulated Strathmore Script. Script offers a range of sustainable choices including 30% and 100% recycled options. The entire line is made using renewable wind-generated electricity.  The Strathmore Script 100% PC pages in the handbook are certified by SmartWood for FSC standards. FSC certification ensures responsible use of forest resources.    "This book was developed to empower designers," says Laura Shore, Mohawk’s Senior Vice President Communications. "Whether creating better products using less material, educating the public using print, or developing processes that convert waste into new uses, design has the potential to help us rethink things that get done every day. Designers can be a powerful force for sustainable thinking among business; we hope this book provides them with stories they can share with their own clients to initiate this important dialogue."    Shore also notes the handbook itself is designed with responsible communication practices. "It was created with renewable resources including recycled substrates. Other materials are non-toxic. The design is durable and multi-functional — and the finished product itself is recyclable," she says. Mohawk Fine Papers has a long-standing commitment to environmental excellence and was the first US paper manufacturer to use non-polluting renewable wind-generated electricity to manufacture its papers, including those used in this book. "Strathmore Script enables designers to create identity systems and communications that are bold, beautiful and sustainable."    The book was designed by Willoughby Design Group, Kansas City, Missouri and printed by Wetmore and Company, an RR Donnelley Company based in Houston, Texas. Wetmore is an FSC-certified printer.    To get a copy of Strathmore Sustainability Portfolio contact your local merchant.  For the name of the merchant nearest you visit www.mohawkpaper.com or call 1-800 the mill.