Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our core building material, glass: which is chemically inert, has zero emissions, and is free from red-list materials.
We collaborate with organizations that work toward a greener future.
We regularly update HPDs for our glass products including Eco-etch®, Texture™, Vitracolor®, Define™ Glassboards, Laminated Glass, and AST Digital Printing™. We primarily use Vitro STARPHIRE® low-iron glass which is Cradle to Cradle certified with available EPDs, and digitally print with inks that are REACH-certified. Using Skyline Design products can help designers achieve points in 4 out of the 6 LEED categories.
Sustainable Manufacturing Processes & Materials
We prioritize environmentally friendly processes and materials to help protect the well-being of our employees, the end-user, and our shared planet.
Eco-etch® Glass Etching
Skyline's glass etching process uses aluminum oxide to finely engrave patterns into the glass surface. We recycle and reuse the material, minimizing waste and carbon footprint. The process delivers a coating-free end product with a lifetime warranty.
Texture®
Skyline's digital texturing process enables us to create full or partial patterns on glass surfaces, providing both privacy and ample natural light. Our deep engraving technique, coupled with a specialized coating that emits no VOCs after curing, produces a stunning effect that resembles rolled or cast glass.
Glass Laminating
Skyline's laminating process uses EVA interlayers, the eco-friendly alternative to PVB. The choice is driven by its lower processing temperatures, reducing heat generation. EVA interlayers also exhibit superior moisture resistance, ensuring the long-term quality of our laminated glass products.
Vitracolor® Back-Painting
Skyline's proprietary Vitracolor roll-coating technique utilizes water-based paint. Specially developed for Skyline and produced within ten miles of our Chicago facility, our paint does not contain or emit VOCs.
AST™ + FV™ Digital Printing
Skyline’s proprietary digital printing processes utilize the world’s most advanced equipment, always updated to provide the highest quality printing and color matching. Our FV™ process uses ceramic frit inks that are certified REACH-compliant, lead and cadmium free, and compatible with EU directive 2011/65/EU. Our AST™ process uses UV inks by Durst that are RoHS compliant and contain no heavy metals or other poisonous or corrosive substances.
Steps Toward Carbon Neutrality
Our sustainability journey began in 2006 when we made a pivotal decision to close our decorative resin business. This marked a complete pivot, shifting our focus entirely towards glass as our core material. Since then, our dedication to sustainability has only strengthened, propelling us forward in our eco-conscious initiatives. Through various efforts like recycling water, embracing energy-efficient lighting, and favoring local suppliers to shorten transport routes, we’re actively reducing our energy consumption.
Our dedication to sustainability means constantly reassessing and innovating for better practices. This commitment drives us towards adopting solar energy to power our factory by 2026.
Eco-friendly Packaging Solutions
Custom-made wood crates are designed to fit each order precisely, and our packing utilizes compostable packing peanuts, cardboard inserts, and recycled paper padding.
Inclusivity and Community Partnerships
We are proud to have a workforce that reflects the diversity of our local community of Humboldt Park, Chicago. We believe in the importance of inclusivity and strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of our team.
Skyline Design works with several nonprofits and schools in Chicago to promote social equity, including:
Association House
Association House serves thousands of families each year in Chicago's westside neighborhoods, through programs that promote health and wellness, advance education, and provide economic opportunity. Skyline Design works with Association House to offer part-time, flexible work options in the Chicago factory for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Heartland Alliance
Heartland Alliance provides comprehensive services and advocates for systems change to advance social, economic, and racial justice to those who have been denied it. Skyline Design works with Heartland Alliance to provide job placement opportunities in our factory and office for refugees who have fled war, terror, and persecution.
RefugeeOne
Finding a first job is a critical step for newly-arrived refugee families. RefugeeOne aims to help every adult refugee secure a full-time job that pays a living wage within 3 months of arrival. Skyline Design works with RefugeeOne to provide job placement opportunities in our factory and office for refugees who have fled war, terror, and persecution.
Teamwork Englewood
Teamwork Englewood provides services and advocacy for returning citizens. Their strategy seeks to improve conditions for their clients by reducing and eliminating the gap between release from incarceration and employment, allowing for optimal reintegration into society.
Chicago Public Schools
The Career and Technical Education program through Chicago Public Schools provide students with opportunities to explore careers and gain marketable skills while still in high school.
Recycling for Reduced Impact
We embrace a circular mindset by incorporating recycled materials into our production processes. Undecorated glass breakage or waste contributes as cullet for new float glass. The aluminum oxide used in our etching process is reused, minimizing waste and carbon footprint. We’ve also invested in a state-of-the-art water centrifuge, efficiently cleaning and recycling water in our glass treatment processes.