izzydesign Becomes First to use Reduced-Phosphate Cleaning System

Spring Lake, MI (September, 2006)—The phosphate emission from izzydesign’s new pre-paint cleaning system for metal furniture is so negligible that water discharged from the treatment tank in Spring Lake, Michigan, no longer requires federal, state or local water quality review.

The resulting pH of the discharged water now is milder than coffee or soft drinks.

That’s a bonus for the environment—and a first for not only Michigan manufacturers but also the office furniture industry, according to Houghton International, which developed the reduced-phosphate cleaning solution now used at izzydesign.

The Grand Haven-Spring Lake Sewer Authority has released izzydesign from twice-yearly self-monitoring and water quality reporting. In a letter, the authority states because izzydesign “is no longer using a phosphorus coating/conditioning solution in your wash/paint line, the facility does not fall under EPA Metal Finishing Categorical Pretreatment Standards (40 CFR 433).”

The State of Michigan also has released izzydesign from filing a storm water permit.  izzydesign's retention pond in front of its headquarters naturally filters water back into the water table while providing a habitat abundant with wildlife.

“These clean water achievements are another step in our journey to be a good corporate citizen—not only by improving the quality of our environment, but also by making our products more responsibly, in a way our customers, employees and community can be proud of,” says Chuck Saylor, president and founder of izzydesign. “Our commitment to creating safe, healthy and sustainable workplace environments starts right here.”

About izzydesignBased in Spring Lake, MI, izzydesign (www.izzydesign.com) combines simple, affordable furniture and seating design with advanced engineering and lean manufacturing capabilities. The company's award-winning products are part of izzycollections, izzyseating; HÅG by izzy, SuperiorSeating by izzy; and izzytextiles and finishes. Most izzydesign products are manufactured in Belton, TX, and Spring Lake, MI. Founded in 2001, izzydesign is a subsidiary of JSJ Corp. (www.jsjcorp.com) of Grand Haven, MI, a privately held corporation that actively designs, develops, markets and brands a group of durable goods and services throughout the world.