The manufacturing industry generates greenhouse gas emissions through fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes. According to the World Economic Forum, one-fifth of the world’s carbon emissions come from the manufacturing and production sectors. Considering Canada’s goal for net-zero emissions by 2050, sustainability may be top of mind for manufacturing organizations in 2025.
Consumer demand for sustainable products is growing. Several studies have shown that people increasingly opt for products produced by companies with “green” credentials. Furthermore, according to professional services firm PwC International Limited, consumers are willing to pay almost 10% more for sustainably produced or sourced goods. Adopting sustainable practices can help manufacturing organizations reach new customers, strengthen their reputations, increase operational efficiency and reduce waste.
Organizations can consider the following five sustainable manufacturing tips:
1. Reduce Waste
Organizations should review their products and processes for inefficiencies and find ways to reduce waste. Appointing a waste prevention team or conducting a waste audit are ways to do this. Minimizing overstocking and overproduction, managing inventory effectively, and optimizing communication between staff are additional ways to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
2. Reduce Transport Emissions
Organizations can cut transport emissions by using electric vehicles (EVs) in fleets and opting for heavy goods vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Employers may want to evaluate all journeys within their operations to see if some can be avoided altogether. For example, employers could leverage augmented reality to collaborate and train employees, reducing the need for experts to travel.
3. Address Energy Efficiency
Manufacturing premises typically require high ceilings and robust ventilation, which can lead to heat loss and energy inefficiencies, so it’s important to scrutinize energy management practices. “Blown air” heaters could be replaced with radiant heaters, and older lighting systems could be replaced with energy-efficient LED alternatives. Organizations should also ensure their premises are well-insulated to avoid heat loss.
4. Leverage Efficient Techniques
Organizations should review their manufacturing techniques to cut carbon emissions. Additive manufacturing—also known as 3D printing—builds objects layer by layer, only using the material necessary to create finished products, thereby reducing waste. This technique also facilitates onshoring, reducing the need for product transportation. Taking one step further, digital twin technology creates a digital replica of physical assets and facilitates accurate simulations, real-time data feeds, and predictive insights. Within warehousing and logistics, digital twin technology can help organizations monitor inventory levels, predict maintenance needs and optimize storage layouts, among other things.
5. Upskill the Workforce
Initiatives to cut inefficiencies and reduce waste can only go so far without employee buy-in. Organizations should explain why environmental practices are important and use newsletters, posters, meetings and workshops to keep staff informed on sustainable initiatives. Recognizing and rewarding staff who champion sustainability can create a culture of accountability.
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