By embracing eco-friendly practices, manufacturers can reduce their environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency
More business owners are embracing sustainable manufacturing to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining operational efficiency and profitability. An Annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report surveying some 1,500 companies reveals that 98% of respondents have a sustainability policy in place.
By embracing the three pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and governance (ESG)—they can reduce costs, increase revenues, encourage brand loyalty, and attract new talent (committed to eco-friendly principles).
Core BTS is similarly committed to sustainable initiatives as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility Policy. We embrace and help our clients embrace sustainable technology options, recycle end-of-life products, modernize internal business practices and IT systems, and engage in other environmentally friendly practices.
Read on to learn more about renewable energy sources, circular economy principles, and the benefits of adopting eco-friendly materials and processes for your company.
What Is Sustainable Manufacturing?
The United States Environment Protection Agency (EPA) defines sustainable manufacturing as “the creation of manufactured products through economically sound processes that minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources. Sustainable manufacturing also enhances employee, community, and product safety.”
Sustainability helps manufacturers to reduce costs and waste, respond to regulatory concerns, and increase competitive advantage in the global market.
Sustainability is also increasingly important to consumers, many of whom will examine the environmental impact of manufacturers’ products and operations before making a purchase.
Renewable Energy Sources
Manufacturers use much more electricity than most other businesses, so any move to green manufacturing or renewable energy resources can have a big environmental impact.
While renewable energy resources, such as solar and wind power, have been priced high compared to regular electricity, the costs have come down, beginning to make them more affordable. At the same time, manufacturers must commit to renewable energy sources so they can successfully weather transitions to new technologies.
Manufacturers could use methods to wean themselves off the traditional electrical grid, such as installing wood turbines and solar panels in their facilities if space permits. They might also source renewable electricity from local suppliers and develop battery storage facilities in case renewable resources are interrupted (for example, the sun doesn’t shine, or the wind doesn’t blow).
Other types of renewable power include:
- Geothermal energy
- Hydropower
- Ocean energy
- Bioenergy
Circular Economy Principles
According to the European Parliament, the circular economy is “a model of production and consumption that involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the lifecycle of products is extended.”
It can prevent losses in a product’s lifecycle, reducing material use. The circular economy can help achieve a sustainable future and socioeconomic benefits by disconnecting business growth from environmental degradation and resource depletion. Raw materials are also used less because end-of-life products and byproducts are employed instead.
The circular economy is based on four interconnected principles:
- Reduction of the environmental footprint — using green products and clean production.
- Generating increased income — using fewer resources and offering better service.
- Reducing resource dependency — collecting and reusing products at their end of life.
- Minimizing waste — by recycling and reusing resources.
Eco-Friendly Materials and Processes
By using non-toxic, eco-friendly materials in their green manufacturing processes, companies can reduce the amount of harmful chemicals and materials used in their processes.
The materials can include:
- Recycled and recyclable materials
- Low-carbon-emission materials
- Bio-sourced materials
- Eco-friendly insulation
- Smart materials (such as liquid crystal windows)
- Carbon-capture materials
- And much more
Innovative and more efficient manufacturing processes can also reduce manufacturers’ environmental footprints. For example, sensors and monitoring systems can help optimize energy consumption, and real-time data analytics can show how operations can be streamlined and improved.
Upgrading equipment and technologies can also reduce energy use. For example, installing LED lighting, updating HVAC systems, and buying energy-efficient motors can all make a difference.
Regular energy audits, continuous improvement programs, and standardized operating procedures can also help identify opportunities for improvement.
Challenges in Sustainable Manufacturing
To get on the eco-playing field, manufacturers may need to make a substantial investment in new technologies and practices. Integrating new technologies with legacy systems may pose a challenge.
It’s also a tough balancing act to meet consumer expectations for environmentally friendly products while managing the production process so it is cost-effective. Complex and evolving environmental regulations may make compliance difficult to achieve.
Supply chain sustainability can also be an issue, ensuring supplier practices align with your own.
To meet these challenges takes determination, preparation, and often the help of the right experienced IT solutions partner.
Go Greener While Staying Competitive
The processes of eco-friendly manufacturing are not only beneficial for the
environment but can also improve a company’s operational efficiency and profitability. By incorporating renewable energy, circular economy principles, and eco-friendly materials and processes, manufacturers could contribute to a greener future while staying competitive.
Core BTS is a proven partner to our manufacturing clients. In a rapidly evolving business environment, we can help future-proof your company, identifying any gaps hindering your success. Working with you, we can develop solutions that leverage advancements in automation, predictive analytics, and other technologies to optimize production lines, streamline processes, and boost productivity.
So, if you want to invest in a sustainable future, start with a small investment of your time consulting with one of our experts. We can help set you on the road to long-term success and environmental stewardship.
