Since 1987, the Illinois Governor's Sustainability Award has recognized private and public Illinois organizations that have implemented outstanding and innovative techniques or technologies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable environmental, social and economic health.

According to the award website: "Governor's Sustainability Award winners are an elite group of committed leaders reducing environmental impact, contributing to the growth of a more sustainable Illinois economy. By prioritizing sustainability throughout their operations, programs, technology, products and company culture, they serve as a model within their industry and community."

Sustainability initiatives have been at the heart of Hoffer Plastics' injection molding operations since 2007, when the company released its first Sustainability Report documenting its best practices. As a first-time winner of the Illinois Governor's Sustainability Award, Hoffer Plastics' efforts have been recognized and its achievements rewarded.

In its entry submission for the award, Hoffer Plastics included a snapshot of its published Sustainability Report, which highlighted the company's longstanding achievement against its many environmental goals. Key highlights include:

The award submission also previewed the company's ambitious goals for the year 2020, which include a 50% reduction in overall water usage and a further 20% reduction in energy consumption per unit of production.

"We're honored to receive the 2015 Illinois Governor's Sustainability Award" said Gretchen Hoffer Farb, Vice President of Value Creation. Farb also serves on the industry-wide Plastics Environmental Council. "Environmental sustainability was instilled as a core value in our company when it started 60 years ago with our founder, my grandfather, Robert Hoffer. Inspired by his example, we set ambitious goals, involve all employees in the effort and keep the vision of an environmental and socially responsible company alive in our culture."