Stewardship

Safeguarding Biodiversity

Biodiversity supports food security, ecosystem health, and economic stability. As stewards of the environment, we are taking steps to protect natural habitats and endangered species. 

• 2023 Biodiversity Assessment
  Our first-ever impact assessment identified that only one facility—our headquarters in Yakima, WA—borders an endangered species habitat. The adjacent Ahtanum Creek is home to the bull trout, a species at risk. 
• Protecting Bull Trout Habitat
  While our impact is minimal, we have eliminated pesticide and fertilizer use on-site to prevent runoff into the stream. In 2024 and beyond, we plan to collaborate with the Yakama Nation to support their conservation efforts. 
• Red List Species Review
  We have conducted a Red List analysis of all facilities to identify at-risk species near our operations. Moving forward, we will work with local and state conservation experts to determine how to best use our green spaces for species protection. 

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Addressing Climate Change 

We recognize the urgent reality of climate change and the need for collective action. Our commitment to sustainability includes: 

• Reducing emissions through operational efficiencies and sustainable practices. 
• Investing in innovation to minimize our carbon footprint. 
• Advocating for climate resilience and environmental stewardship within our industry and communities. 

At Kwik Lok, we know that preserving biodiversity and tackling climate change requires bold action. By going Beyond Boundaries, we are building a future where both people and the planet can thrive. 

Water: A Commitment to Conservation 

At Kwik Lok, we recognize that water is essential to life, economic development, and ecological balance. As responsible stewards of the environment, we are committed to sustainable water management—minimizing waste, protecting water quality, and promoting conservation. 

Assessing and Improving Water Use 

We recently completed our first-ever water use analysis to better understand our impact and identify opportunities for efficiency and sustainability. Moving forward, we will: 

• Evaluate and refine our water conservation practices. 
• Collaborate with stakeholders to promote responsible water use. 
• Support community resilience by advocating for equitable access to clean water. 

By taking collective action and driving innovation, we aim to safeguard water resources for future generations—going Beyond Boundaries to build a more sustainable future. 

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Water Policy at Kwik Lok, Inc. 

Water scarcity, lack of access to clean water, and habitat destruction are global challenges affecting individuals, community, and the environment. These impacts are projected to be amplified by the effects of climate change.    

While Kwik Lok does not use water in its manufacturing process, it does use water in its facilities to ensure the safety of employees, for sanitation, and for the comfort of its employees. Over the coming months and years, Kwik Lok will continue to monitor its water usage and ensure that it is minimizing consumption as well safeguarding water sources to the greatest extent possible.  

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Water Analysis

Summary of findings from our first water analysis.

Kwik Lok has minimal business risk stemming from water withdrawals or water discharge.  

Water withdrawals: Kwik Lok does not use water for manufacturing of its products. One hundred percent of Kwik Lok’s water use is for the safety, sanitation, and well-being of our employees. Kwik Lok’s withdrawal is through city water, and we do not use any well water or other freshwater sources beyond what is provided by the respective municipalities in all of our locations.  

Despite the minimal water use, Kwik Lok recognizes that several of its facilities operate in areas of water scarcity. As such, Kwik Lok continues to monitor and minimize its water consumption.  

Water discharge: Kwik Lok uses municipal discharge systems (sewer) at all of its facilities. Kwik Lok does not own or operate any septic systems.  

Water runoff: The majority of Kwik Lok’s office facilities are in industrial parks/office complexes and do not have ground maintenance activities. Kwik Lok’s Indiana and Washington facilities have maintenance activities.   

• Our Indiana facility does not water or use chemical fertilizers on its property.   
• Our Washington facility does use water and chemical fertilizers/pesticides on its property.   

Compliance 
Kwik Lok has had no water citations or water compliance violations in any of its facilities.  

Summary 
Kwik Lok has little to no exposure regarding profitability, productivity, regulatory compliance.   

At Kwik Lok, we are committed to embracing the circular economy—a system designed to eliminate waste and extend the lifecycle of materials by prioritizing reuse, recycling, and sustainable design. Unlike the traditional “take-make-dispose” model, a circular economy reduces resource consumption, minimizes environmental impact, and fosters innovation.  

By rethinking product design and packaging, we can reduce plastic waste while creating new opportunities for economic growth and sustainability.  

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Collaborating for Impact 

Kwik Lok actively partners with global initiatives to drive meaningful change in plastic sustainability: 

Canada Plastics Pact
A collaboration of businesses, governments, and NGOs working toward a circular economy for plastics, ensuring they never become waste or pollution. Kwik Lok helped develop a five-year vision for sustainable packaging innovation. 

U.S. Plastics Pact
A solutions-driven initiative uniting more than 70 brands, retailers, NGOs, and government agencies to set a national strategy for a circular plastics economy by 2025. Led by The Recycling Partnership, World Wildlife Fund, and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, this effort focuses on scalable solutions for rethinking packaging and reducing plastic waste. 

ANZPAC Plastics Pact
A regional initiative bringing together businesses and policymakers to create a circular economy for plastics, keeping them in use and out of the environment.