Sustainability in Manufacturing

Manufacturing has come a long way in recent times; there is now a major focus on improving the sustainability of the industry and way that we produce products. Executives are aware of the importance of making sure that their organisations can sustain future change, and this has led to an increased investment in sustainability.

There are many schemes that a company can take part in to improve the sustainability of both their employees lives and internal processes. Some of these schemes include carbon offsetting, employee ride to work incentives and Industrial Energy Transformation funds.

Companies can make independent change alongside larger scheme. An energy audit assists companies to see where they can alter processes and buying to reduce their impact on the environment. These audits can often save companies money in the long run, although it is not all about profit. There are many climate technologies that are now an essential part of behavioural change, these include reusable batteries, low-carbon hydrogen and alternative fuels.

Awareness of the harmful impact of plastics on the environment have prompted many companies to source alternative packaging and production materials. Organisations can reap major benefits by putting funds towards implementing circular economy principles and sustainable product design. Fortunately, ASH Door Furniture works with predominantly metal materials but the way that these are dispatched to customers has evolved; paper wrapping material is used where possible.

There is also the opportunity for companies to embrace technology to reduce paper waste, staff needing to be in potentially wasteful office spaces and technology can assist in streamlining processes to reduce time spent on tasks.

This principle can contribute towards a four-day working week, where employees extend their hourly date for four days and have the fifth day as an additional day away from the premise. At ASH Door Furniture, we have extended our four-day working week scheme for the Production staff and have seen a reduction in energy costs, symbolising less use and a better environmental impact.