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Plano, Texas Awards Smith System Environmental Star of Excellence

Award recognizes school furniture manufacturer’s commitment to environmental stewardship

PLANO, TEXAS (Nov. 22, 2006) – School furniture manufacturer, Smith System, was recently awarded the 2006 Outstanding Environmental Commitment Award from the city of Plano, Texas. The award recognizes Smith System’s internally-driven initiatives to reduce the impact and use of hazardous materials and pollutants in their manufacturing process.

“Having such an environmentally committed and proactive company located in Plano goes beyond this one time award and means more than any cost savings associated with their environmental accomplishments,” said Robert Smouse, Environmental Services Manager, City of Plano. “This is a huge statement towards the advancements of sustainable business practices.”

In accepting the award, Smith System CEO Charlie Risdall acknowledged the efforts put forth by the company’s 120 employees. “In 2001, our company set a goal to make a positive contribution a healthy environment, both in our community and in our children’s schools,” said Risdall. “As a company we examined all aspects of its manufacturing processes — from materials to machinery — and reduced waste and increased recyclable products wherever possible.”

Smith System’s commitment to a healthy environment was also recently recognized by GREENGUARD Environmental Institute, an industry independent, non-profit organization dedicated to improving public health and quality of life through programs that improve indoor air quality.

In October 2006, Smith System’s entire product line received GREENGUARD Children and Schools Indoor Air Quality certification. In order to achieve certification, rigorous testing protocol was performed on each material type used in Smith System manufacturing to identify whether or not airborne pollutants were released. Results showed Smith System to produce low chemical emissions, therefore providing a safer environment for its workers and the surrounding community.

About Smith System
Founded in 1905, Smith System, (www.smithsystem.com) has helped American education evolve by being ready with right furniture at the right time. An industry leader in school furniture innovation, Smith system is committed to developing products that support the optimum learning environments – addressing the needs of the student, the demands of the curriculum and the realities of space, maintenance and budget.

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Editor’s Note: To download accompanying images or learn more about Smith System, visit www.smithsystem.com/news

Media Contact:
Bill Risdall
Smith System
972.398.4050
billr@smithsystem.com

Media Contact:
Eva Keiser
Risdall McKinney Public Relations
651.286.6765
eva@risdall.com