Earth Day 2025: How American Frame Contributes to a Healthier Planet
Every April 22, people around the world come together to recognize Earth Day, a time to reflect on our environmental impact and take action toward sustainability. This year’s theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," serves as a reminder that responsibility falls on individuals, businesses, and governments alike.
Since the early days of American Frame, our founder instilled in us the drive to take this commitment seriously, integrating sustainable practices into our daily operations to reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote eco-conscious products. Here’s a closer look at how we continue to be part of the solution.
Sustainability in Custom Picture Framing
For more than 52 years, we’ve specialized in high-quality custom picture frames, ensuring that craftsmanship and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. Many of our products are designed with sustainability in mind, and we actively collaborate with manufacturers who share our environmental values.
One key partner, Nielsen, takes sustainability to the next level with a state-of-the-art water treatment system that returns water cleaner than it started. Their facility filters and treats water on-site, removing solids to meet or exceed EPA standards. The remaining solids are safely disposed of, and whenever possible, they utilize well water to reduce reliance on municipal supplies. This impressive level of environmental responsibility aligns with our mission and underscores the importance of working with companies that prioritize sustainability.
Nielsen metal frames are made in America from 100% recyclable aluminum.
Beyond its water conservation efforts, Nielsen also produces high-quality metal frames made in the U.S. from 100% recyclable aluminum, ensuring that every frame is part of a sustainable process that reduces waste and preserves natural resources.
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our American Hardwoods collection, which includes two responsibly sourced product lines. One is offered through a partnership with Larson Juhl, using wood from the Cumberland Gap region of the Appalachian Mountains, while the other is exclusively designed by us and supplied by an FSC-certified local partner. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures that these materials are responsibly harvested, and all frames feature a water-based finish to minimize environmental pollution.
Additionally, our Ready-To-Ship frame line repurposes byproduct materials from our custom framing operation, reducing waste while providing affordable, high-quality frame options.
By prioritizing sustainable materials and working with eco-conscious partners, we continue to make responsible choices that benefit both our customers and the environment.
Our American Hardwoods frame collection is sustainably grown and harvested.
Reducing Waste Through Reusable Packaging
Packaging waste is a significant concern, particularly for artists and photographers who need to ship framed work. Our shipping materials are designed for reuse, helping customers send their framed artwork safely while reducing the overall demand for disposable packaging.
Additionally, we offer white-label shipping, which allows customers to send framed artwork directly to clients without unnecessary repackaging and shipping. These small changes add up, reducing environmental impact across the board.
A Strong Commitment to Recycling
Recycling plays a crucial role in protecting our planet by conserving energy, reducing pollution, and minimizing landfill waste. In 2024, our recycling efforts included:
- Over 7,200 pounds of aluminum
- Over 11,500 pounds of acrylic plexiglass
- Over 16,000 pounds of cardboard
- Over 7,400 pounds of steel
Moving Forward with Purpose
As Earth Day reminds us, every action—no matter how small—contributes to a larger impact. Whether it’s making sustainable choices in our products, reducing waste in our processing and packaging, or forming partnerships with like-minded companies, American Frame remains committed to protecting the planet.
We invite you to join us in making conscious choices that support a more sustainable future. Stay informed about our efforts and industry news by signing up for our newsletter.
