Just Label Resilient Flooring Certification is a material program that focuses on the wellness and sustainability of the flooring products such as resilient flooring, luxury vinyl tiles and rigid core vinyl flooring planks. The JUST label is developed by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI) as a mean to evaluates products based on specific social justice and environmental criteria.
The JUST platform was developed by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI) as a pioneering approach to promote transparency in organizational practices beyond just product composition. Unlike traditional certification programs, the JUST initiative functions more like a nutritional label, providing insights into the social equity and justice practices of organizations. It mandates that participating companies report on various indicators related to their operations and workforce, with each indicator being assigned a specific level of accountability that can be categorized into One, Two, or Three Star ratings. These ratings are then prominently displayed on the JUST label, allowing consumers and stakeholders to make informed decisions based on the company’s commitment to social justice.
Key Criteria of the Just Label Resilient Flooring Certification
- Material Transparency: Resilient flooring products must disclose their material composition make up and source, ensuring that they are free from harmful chemicals and are safe for both environmental and health safety aspects.
- Sustainability: The resilient vinyl flooring should be made from sustainable materials and have a minimal environmental impact throughout its product life cycle.
- Equity and Social Justice: The certification also considers the social impact of the flooring product, such as fair labor practices and community engagements.
- Wellness and Health: Flooring Products are evaluated for their impact on indoor air quality and overall health, ensuring they contribute positively to the living environments where they are used.
First JUST Label Resilient Flooring Certification in China
Aspecta, a leading flooring brand and manufacturer in resilient flooring, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first company to receive the Social Justice Label (JUST) for its manufacturing facility located in China. This recognition marks a groundbreaking moment not only for Aspecta but also for the broader flooring industry, as it highlights the increasing awareness for improving social responsibility across the global supply chain networks.
Metroflor, the parent company of Aspecta, announced that its manufacturing partner, Elegant Home-Tech Company Limited, previously known as Elegant Plastics, has been awarded with this prestigious JUST label resilient flooring certification. Situated in Zhangjiagang, China, Elegant Home-Tech holds large share of production capability to support Aspecta’s commercial luxury vinyl tile (LVT) production supply. Being certified with the JUST label signifies that Elegant Home-Tech is the first of its kind to receive such an honor in China, setting a benchmark for LVT manufacturers across China and around the globe. To qualify for the JUST label certification, Elegant Home-Tech had to undergo various of evaluation process set by the ILFI, which involved submitting a comprehensive set of policies for public scrutiny. The assessment covered a broad spectrum of criteria, including workplace safety, diversity initiatives, employee benefits, and community involvement, all of which are essential components of a socially responsible manufacturing.
What made it possible for Just Label Certification Approval in China
Rochelle Routman, Chief Sustainability Officer at Aspecta, expressed her pride in the achievement, stating that pursuing the JUST label for a factory in China is both a bold and meaningful endeavor. She emphasized that this accomplishment establishes a new standard not only for their own manufacturing facility but also for the entire U.S. manufacturing sector that relies on factories in Asia. Routman highlighted the shifting perception surrounding products made in China, noting that modern facilities like Elegant Home-Tech have made significant advancements in enhancing worker experiences, ensuring quality control, and promoting transparency in both product and social practices. She believes that Aspecta is at the forefront of this transformative movement, advocating for greater transparency that extends beyond the borders of the United States.
Harlan Stone, Chairman of the Board for Aspecta, echoed these sentiments, expressing immense pride in the company’s unwavering dedication to transparency and social responsibility. He remarked that this commitment is deeply ingrained in the corporate culture and influences every aspect of their global operations. Stone further articulated that when a company prioritizes the well-being of its employees, this concern is reflected in the overall quality of its products and services. He envisions this commitment creating a virtuous cycle where enhanced employee welfare leads to superior product quality, ultimately benefiting consumers and the marketplace.
By being the first to achieve this level of recognition, Aspecta hopes to inspire other companies to follow suit and adopt similar practices in their operations.Jin Song, the Chief Executive Officer of Elegant Home-Tech, has expressed his unwavering support for the JUST initiative, recognizing the critical importance of transparency within the expansive flooring manufacturing facility that employs a workforce exceeding 1,000 individuals. This commitment to transparency is not just about compliance, it reflects a broader ethos of accountability and ethical practices in the workplace. Furthermore, Metroflor is fortunate to have Simon Xia, who serves as the general manager for China and acts as a vital link between Metroflor and Elegant Home-Tech. His role has been instrumental in bridging communication gaps, particularly those arising from language differences, which can often hinder effective collaboration.
Xia’s efforts were pivotal in initiating the documentation process for existing policies related to transparency and social equity. He collaborated closely with Francis Janes, the JUST Manager at the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), who provided guidance on the specific parameters required for achieving the JUST label. This partnership allowed Xia to systematically assess and document the company’s practices regarding transparency and social equity, ultimately leading to the successful attainment of this prestigious certification.
Francis Janes remarked that the JUST Label is a testament to Metroflor’s enduring dedication to sustainable business practices. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first instance of a facility in China receiving the JUST label, highlighting a significant milestone in the region’s commitment to sustainability.
Corey Carter, Metroflor’s Director of Sustainability, emphasized that securing the inaugural JUST label for a Chinese company signifies a breakthrough in systemic transparency. He expressed hope that this accomplishment will serve as a catalyst for shaping the future landscape of manufacturing in China, encouraging other companies to adopt similar transparent and equitable practices.
The announcement regarding the first JUST label awarded to a Chinese enterprise will be made during the Positively Made in China panel at the forthcoming Living Future Conference, scheduled to take place in Portland from May 2 to May 4. Aspecta, a key sponsor of the event, will play a role in facilitating discussions around this important topic. The panel aims to provide attendees with an insightful exploration into the realm of green and sustainable resilient flooring manufacturing in China. Participants will include Routman and Xia, along with James Connelly, Vice President of Products and Strategic Growth at ILFI, and Ryan Dick, the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of GIGA. Together, they will delve into the interconnected dynamics of manufacturing between the United States and China, highlighting the vast opportunities that exist for fostering performance-driven sustainability in both regions.
About Metroflor Corporation
Metroflor represents more than merely a corporate identity; it embodies a transformative movement within the realm of resilient flooring solutions. As a frontrunner in promoting sustainability and transparency, Metroflor is actively forging collaborative partnerships that yield products which are not only healthy and high-performing but also designed with biophilic principles in mind. This approach emphasizes a deep connection between nature and the built environment, fostering spaces that enhance well-being.
