Congressman Tonko Presents Mohawk with Congressional Recognition for Environmental Achievements

COHOES, NY—October 14, 2014—Congressman Paul Tonko presented Mohawk chairman and CEO, Thomas O’Connor, Jr., with Congressional Recognition for Mohawk’s longstanding environmental achievements, including a 20-year affiliation as a manufacturer of Green Seal-Certified Papers.

“Investing in green energy and a clean environment is critical to public health and a robust economy. I applaud Mr. O'Connor and his entire team at Mohawk Fine Papers for their commitment to sustainability, local jobs and economic development in the Capital Region,” said Congressman Tonko, (D-NY).

Mohawk leads the paper industry in environmental and sustainable practices and has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for many achievements, including membership in the EPA’s Green Power Leadership Club which it has held since 2005.

Mohawk was also recently recognized by Green Seal, which is celebrating its 25-Anniversary. Green Seal Certification is a process that ensures that a product meets rigorous performance, health and environmental criteria. Mohawk was recognized on October 8, 2014, for its 20-year Green Seal certification at the organization’s anniversary event held in Washington, DC.

In 2014, Mohawk was named to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s national list of 100 percent Green Power Users list, ranking among other leading renewable energy purchasers including Intel, Whole Foods Market, Staples, the U.S. EPA, Union College and the Empire State Building.

Mohawk takes pride in the its numerous environmental partnerships and certifications, including longstanding alliances with:

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Green Power Partnership
• EPA SmartWay Transport Partnership
• Center for Resource Solutions Green-e Marketplace
• Green Seal
• The Rainforest Alliance
• The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

About Mohawk
Mohawk is North America’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of fine papers and envelopes which are preferred for commercial and digital printing, photo specialties and high-end direct mail. Mohawk fine papers and envelopes include the signature brands Mohawk Superfine and Strathmore, as well as proprietary treatments Inxwell and i-Tone. With a culture of innovation, Mohawk’s business model now extends beyond paper manufacturing into new areas of growth, including digital substrates and web-based software platforms, which connect designers and printers to new markets.

As a leader in environmentally and socially responsible business practices, Mohawk was the first U.S. manufacturer of commercial printing papers to match 100 percent of its electricity with wind power renewable energy credits and the first U.S. premium paper mill to shift toward carbon neutral production. Many products within Mohawk’s portfolio of recycled papers are certified by Green Seal and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Mohawk is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business based in Cohoes, New York, with global sales and operations located throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

Source: Mohawk.