For over 44 years, SBI has remained committed to maintaining a safe, environmentally friendly operation. In the early days of SBI, Gene Banks, our founder and president, brought his young kids to work with him. Ensuring that his kids were not exposed to harmful chemicals was a priority, and that priority shaped how SBI considers its impact on customers and the environment as a whole.
Our team continually looks for ways to innovate and improve, especially in the area of sustainability and environmental stewardship. To that end, we’re excited to share that as of June 2023, we have aggressively begun eliminating products containing PFAS chemicals (fluorinated). PFAS are ‘forever’ chemicals that do not biodegrade over time, and at high level exposure, many health effects have been observed. This is why these products are being eliminated from our facilities. In addition, we have invested in replacing all equipment that applied PFAS-containing products to fabrics. Continue reading for additional information regarding these changes, including our ability to provide a PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish for fabrics.
Phasing Out PFAS Chemicals Completely
SBI’s decision to stop using products containing PFAS chemicals is a substantial step towards achieving our goal of being a fully PFAS-free organization. As of June 2023, this process is in full effect, removing these products from our facilities ASAP. This swift decision ensures that our operations align with our commitment to environmental sustainability and human health.
Investing In New Equipment
SBI recognizes the need for updated equipment that supports our PFAS-free approach. As we transition away from using PFAS-containing products, we have invested in state-of-the-art equipment that applies alternative solutions to fabrics. This equipment will enable us to maintain our exceptional quality standards while upholding our commitment to a cleaner and greener future.
Providing PFAS-Free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finishes
We know that some industries and applications require durable water repellency and stain protection. Depending on the fabric, we offer a PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish that provides excellent wash durability and stain protection. Our dedicated team works closely with clients to determine the specific requirements of their projects and tailor the solutions accordingly, ensuring both performance and environmental responsibility.
The Importance of a PFAS-Free Approach
Eliminating the use of PFAS chemicals in our industry is important for several reasons:
Environmental Impact: PFAS chemicals have been linked to persistent environmental contamination. By eradicating their use, SBI is actively working towards reducing our ecological footprint and safeguarding natural resources.
Human Health: High exposure to PFAS chemicals has been associated with potential health risks, making it imperative for organizations to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees, customers, and communities. By going PFAS-free, SBI is taking proactive steps to protect human health and contribute to a healthier industry.
Setting an Industry Standard: SBI’s transition to being PFAS-free sets a new benchmark for the fabric finishing industry. By demonstrating the feasibility and viability of alternative solutions, we hope to inspire other organizations to follow suit, collectively working towards a more sustainable and responsible future.
By eliminating the use of products containing PFAS chemicals, investing in new equipment, and providing PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) finishes, we hope to pave the way for a cleaner and safer industry. Contact SBI today with any questions about these changes and to learn more about how we can help elevate your projects while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Simply email us at customerservice@sbifinishing.com or call 903-675-1440.