By: Samantha Worden
Sergenian’s Floor Coverings, a family-owned enterprise established in 1930, stands as an example of eco-consciousness in the flooring sector. Recently, Sustain Dane staff met with Nick Sergenian, a key figure in preserving his family’s legacy while leading sustainable initiatives.
One of Sergenian’s notable endeavors is its groundbreaking carpet reclamation program, a testament to their commitment to minimizing environmental footprint. Since its inception in 2007, this initiative has diverted over 23 million pounds of carpet and flooring from local landfills. Sergenian’s not only reduces waste from their own operations, but they also invite the community to participate through a convenient drop-off program, making sustainability accessible to all.
Sergenian’s recognizes the significant environmental impact of construction projects, with over 70% of landfill waste originating from this sector. To combat this issue, they actively encourage their commercial clients to pursue LEED Certification. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), offers certification for companies implementing sustainable building practices. LEED requires recycling old flooring materials and/or installing eco-friendly flooring options – two solutions Sergenian’s offers and recommends.
Sergenian’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with their own initiatives; they actively engage with the broader community to promote environmental stewardship. One notable collaboration is their involvement in carpet recycling during UW-Madison’s move-out days. By providing an avenue for students to responsibly dispose of their used carpets, Sergenian’s contributes to reducing waste and fostering a culture of sustainability on campus.
Sergenian’s Floor Coverings stands as a shining example of how businesses can thrive while prioritizing environmental responsibility. They honor their history and are leaders in more sustainable flooring options through their innovative programs, community engagement, and commitment to reuse. As consumers, we can strive to support businesses that prioritize sustainability. Together, we can work towards a thriving and inclusive community with a sustainable environment and economy that we are proud to pass on to future generations.
