About Us Sustainability

Sustainability

“Herman Miller will be a good corporate neighbor by being a good steward of the environment.”

—D.J. De Pree, founder, Herman Miller, Inc., 1953

Herman Miller’s interest in the environment began with the strong convictions of its founder, D.J. De Pree, who believed that corporations, like people, should see themselves as stewards. This commitment to the environment has taken shape through almost 50 years of programs, initiatives, and the many contributions of individuals and teams. During that time, concern for the environment has become part of Herman Miller corporate life, from architecture to product design to operations.

In 2004, Herman Miller put into place a set of environmental goals that included a zero operational footprint. In the decade since, the company has sharpened its goals around the smart use of resources, eco-inspired design, and becoming community-driven. Its new 10-year sustainability strategy—Earthright—begins with three principles: positive transparency, products as living things, and becoming greener together.