The sustainability initiative has gained global momentum in recent years, but The Shepherd Color Company has been implementing various forms of sustainable practices for decades.
As a leading global producer of complex inorganic colour pigments, the Company has been naturally pursuing sustainability in an effort to "do what’s right” when it comes to people and the environment for more than 80 years.
To support their values as well as respond to customer’s needs and demands, their efforts in this area continue to evolve.
For almost a decade, Shepherd Color has made a global effort to ensure that raw materials are obtained in an ethical manner.
Numerous policies are in place to declare the due diligence among staff members and suppliers that they are taking measures not to source conflict minerals, like those from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
"We have become more knowledgeable and more thoughtful about how we source our raw materials — not just what we make with our product but what we bring in the door,” said Chris Collesel, Purchasing Manager.
Along with sustainable sourcing, Shepherd Color is focused on social sustainability, which represents the relationship with people.
The company’s founders set high standards for the ethical treatment of its employees, clients, and communities.
"Even with Shepherd Color’s extensive growth, its focus on social sustainability is set through its human relations principles and policies,” said Nathan Hatfield, Human Resources Manager for the company.
"An example would be how we coordinate programmes like our tuition reimbursement.
"Whether you’re a part-time or full-time employee, you’re eligible for tuition reimbursement.
"And you can pursue any degree programme at any accredited university.”
The main layer to sustainability that Shepherd Color focuses on is economic sustainability.
Since 1930, Shepherd Color has been developing long-lasting inorganic colour pigments.
Their pigments are durable, which decreases the need to be replaced every few years; and are reflective, keeping buildings and surrounding cityscapes cool and saving energy.
Their Arctic® reflective technology pigments are now 5th generation products, proving that Shepherd Color has continued to advance their products over the last 30 years, helping customers save more money and helping the environment stay cooler.
Shepherd Color’s focus on sustainability has evolved over the years, but one thing has remained constant: "do what’s right” when it comes to people and the environment.
