Companies are looking for ways to differentiate themselves and lower their costs in a world of increased competition in manufacturing. One way that many manufacturers don’t take advantage of is reducing the environmental impact. Reducing environmental pollution in the manufacturing process promotes the company’s sustainability and improves the environment. Here are 7 ways the manufacturing process can better the environment.
1. Choose a Factory that is a Zero-Carbon Facility
While not every manufacturing process or product has a zero-carbon footprint, companies can still choose their factories based on the number of emissions they produce. A zero-carbon facility is one that produces no net emissions, and there are many manufacturers who have chosen to make the switch to these facilities. These facilities exist in a variety of locations and offer a variety of equipment and production capabilities.
2. Have a Responsible Recycling Program
One of the most impactful ways to reduce emissions is by having a strong recycling program. Recycling is one of the most efficient ways to dispose of waste in a productive way, and many manufacturers are finding ways to make recycling more convenient for their customers. It takes less energy and resources to recycle products than sending them to a landfill, and it also helps keep landfills from overflowing with waste.
3. Use Solar Power
Many manufacturers are looking into alternative energy sources, including solar power. Solar power is more efficient than many other kinds of power in the manufacturing process because there is no need for fossil fuels or other polluting materials in its creation.
4. Find a Facility with a Renewable Energy System
Another way to minimize the environmental impact of manufacturing is to find a facility that uses renewable energy sources. Renewable energy sources include wind, solar and geothermal. These can be good alternatives to power generators that use fossil fuels or other non-renewable resources.
5. Choose High-Efficiency Equipment
Choosing high-efficiency equipment for processes like compression molding and injection molding is one way to reduce emissions overall in the manufacturing process. There are a variety of molding machines that are more efficient than others, some of which have 80 percent energy savings compared to machines that were used 20 years ago.
6. Look for Water Conservation Opportunities
In many manufacturing processes, the use of water is significant. To save on water consumption, a facility can choose to reuse the water that is used in the manufacturing process instead of letting it run off into sewers. Also, when using cleaners in the manufacturing process, look for environmentally sound cleaners that can be used without harsh chemicals and that aren’t harmful to people or the environment.
7. Minimize Waste
The last way to help reduce emissions in your manufacturing process is to minimize waste overall. Waste, like water, is often used in many manufacturing processes. Companies can reduce waste by using reusable equipment, staying organized, and being mindful of where products go once they are out of the machine.
In conclusion, by switching to less pollutive manufacturing processes, companies can help lower their environmental impact and protect their community.