Written by Chris Goeloe, VP, Quality and Responsible Care

Sustainability. What is it and why is it so important? A simple definition of sustainability is the ability to carry on. According to the Brundtland Commission, “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Sustainability is a complex topic with a number of elements and methods of measurement. Society, environment and economy are key elements of sustainability and sustainable development. And doing well in all of these areas are critically important. According to Anderson Development Company’s President and CEO, Mark Kramer, “This is the way that would allow our business to thrive for the next 200 years.”

Protection of our local and global community is vital. Anderson Development Company (ADC) follows the principles of Responsible Care® which aims to continually improve performance related to the environment, health, safety, and security with a focus on our stakeholders.

Picture from a food and fundraising drive for The Daily Bread, a local food pantry.

There is an old adage, “Think globally, act locally.” As members of our community, we take that to heart. ADC supports local groups including Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries, Lenawee Cares, United Way, Stubnitz Environmental Education Center and Lenawee Intermediate School District. Anderson Development partners with local groups to host community Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events. ADC works closely with local emergency responders including providing an on-site training area. Anderson Development promotes pollution prevention and waste minimization including recycling, which helps minimize impact on the environment.

Anderson Development provides value-added solutions that solve customer problems. One example is a high performance powder coating product for the automotive market that eliminates the need to use solvents and promotes cleaner air. Also the excess powder can be reused, unlike traditional solvent based coatings. Our Michigan based company competitively supplies customers across the globe. Due to our ability to provide innovative solutions, we are able to provide great job opportunities and other direct including taxes and indirect benefits which further strengthens our community.

Sustainability is not a destination. It is an ongoing journey. We appreciate working collaboratively with our stakeholders along the journey.