A Google Earth photo shows the solar panels that generate nearly all of the Eclipse International factory’s electricity.
North Brunswick, New Jersey-based Eclipse International has capped off a three-year effort to make its flagship factory a zero-waste facility. The milestone means waste materials from mattress production — foam and fabric scraps, wood, cardboard and other packaging materials — now are being recycled.
“It took longer than expected to find suitable outlets for all of our materials, but it’s a great feeling to know that we’re doing our part to be good stewards of our environment,” said Stuart Carlitz, chief executive officer of Eclipse. “We kept our employees informed of our progress every step of the way, and they have been very supportive of our efforts.”
The catalyst for becoming more sustainable occurred when Eclipse installed solar panels on the roof of the factory. According to a news release, the panels produce all of the factory’s electricity needs on most days — saving the company more than $100,000 annually on its electric bill. The success of that program prompted the Eclipse staff to begin searching for ways to recycle waste from its manufacturing process.
“Not only has this taught us how to take better care of the environment, it has made us more aware of just how much material is being wasted,” Carlitz said. “It’s too early to calculate the savings, but we’re figuring out ways to create less waste in the beginning, so I’m sure there will be cost savings down the road.”
