Sustainability and creativity took center stage at the Necklaces & Net Zero event during The International Surface Event (TISE) in Las Vegas on January 28, 2025, hosted by Women In the Floorcovering Industry (WIFI).

The event featured a myth-busting panel and a hands-on jewelry-making activity sponsored by AHF Products, with yarn donated by Universal Fibers. Industry leaders came together to debunk sustainability myths, with panelists including Daniel Cassidy, Noah Chitty, Sinclair Myers, Ranae Anderson, and Malisa Maynard, and flooring industry editor Amy Rush-Imber moderating. The panel tackled topics such as the role of carbon offsets in net-zero goals, the value of wool carpets, and the sustainability of carpets. 

Daniel Cassidy, vice president of brand marketing and consumer insights at Shaw Industries, addressed the myth that homeowners don’t care about sustainability. He explained that while consumer priorities vary, homeowners do care, but it’s about asking the right questions to understand their values, whether it's indoor air quality, recyclability, or carbon footprint. Notably, he said, “If you were to ask five people what sustainability means to them, you would get five different answers.”

Sinclair Myers, general manager of Myers Carpet of Dalton, debunked the myth that wool carpets are too expensive compared to synthetic options. He said that “Wool may have a higher upfront cost, but they offer superior longevity, reducing the need for replacement over time.” These carpets are also renewable, biodegradable, and sourced with minimal environmental impact. 

Ranae Anderson, global sustainability leader at Universal Fibers, challenged the myth that carpets are not environmentally friendly. She shared how the carpet industry has made significant strides in sustainability through recycling initiatives, reduced resource usage, and the development of eco-friendly fibers that are both durable and recyclable. She shared that “Educating consumers, sharing the industry’s achievements, and positioning the benefits of sustainable carpets will help debunk this myth and build trust in the market.”

Malisa Maynard, chief sustainability officer at Mohawk Industries, busted the myth that small changes don’t matter in the big picture. She highlighted that every small action contributes to larger systemic change and shared how Mohawk is investing in both incremental and significant sustainability efforts that collectively lead to greater environmental impact. She said, “The choices we make to tackle the small changes in sustainability add up over time. Results don’t come overnight but that doesn’t mean we stop trying to be better.”

Noah Chitty, vice president of sustainability and technical services at AHF, addressed the role of carbon credits/offsets in achieving net-zero goals. He stated, “We can’t eliminate carbon emissions overnight, but offsets can be a valuable temporary tool if credible and part of a broader reduction strategy.” Chitty also highlighted the importance of using transparency documents, like EPDs, to guide decarbonization efforts and set clear sustainability goals.

These distinguished experts shared valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing the flooring industry as it navigates the move toward greater sustainability. Attendees were eager to engage with the panelists, ask questions, and contribute to the conversation about how their companies can reduce their environmental impact as well.

Then, attendees were invited to design their own necklaces, bracelets, pins, and keychains using recycled flooring materials, showcasing their personal style while embracing eco-conscious practices. This hands-on activity not only fostered creativity but also allowed attendees to reconnect with the principles of sustainability in a fun and meaningful way.

The event proved to be a powerful blend of education and creativity. By debunking common myths and offering practical insights, the Necklaces & Net Zero event served as a reminder that each step, no matter how small, brings us closer to creating lasting impact as the flooring industry moves toward a more sustainable future.