Sustainability has become a priority for many industries. Sustainable manufacturing emerges as a response to the environmental challenges faced by different industrial sectors. In this blog, we will explain what sustainable manufacturing is and how it is transforming the way we produce goods and services.
What is sustainable manufacturing?
Sustainable manufacturing is a production approach that aims to minimize the negative impact on the environment, local communities, and workers while maximizing efficiency and economic profitability. It is grounded in key principles such as reducing the consumption of natural resources, minimizing waste and emissions, adopting renewable energy, and enhancing working conditions.
Adriana Torres, Vice President and Director of LATAM Operations at Capgemini, a specialized company in the application of technology and sustainability, points out that in recent years, a significant portion of polluting emissions originates from the industrial sector, primarily within manufacturing. The 2022 State of Supply Chain Sustainability report, compiled by MIT, highlights a global endeavor among companies to elevate their commitment to climate change mitigation by 12%. This commitment is achieved through the implementation of diverse sustainable techniques and measures, encompassing solar panels, water recycling, utilization of the Internet of Things, blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence. By adopting these strategic actions, the industry can substantially curtail its environmental footprint.
Approaches to Sustainable Manufacturing
Sustainability as the Foundation for Product and Service Design: Through rapid prototyping, research, and development, companies can make modifications without excessive material consumption or generating a high volume of waste.
Utilization of Sustainable Materials: Sustainable manufacturing aims to promote the use of materials with the least environmental impact. Implemented actions range from streamlining raw material acquisition processes, prioritizing recyclable, biodegradable, and renewable source materials, to fostering additive manufacturing.
The Circular Economy: Promoting a circular economy, where products at the end of their life cycle become resources for new production processes. According to World Bank data, approximately 2 billion tons of waste reach landfills globally each year. Prioritizing material lifespan can significantly reduce manufacturing-generated waste.
Energy Efficiency: Embracing sustainable practices for energy savings not only benefits the environment but also leads to long-term production cost reduction. An example is the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
Transportation and Logistics: Maritime transportation contributes significantly to CO2 emissions. Hence, the manufacturing industry must contemplate alternatives or optimizations to mitigate the environmental impact generated by the supply chain.
Sustainable manufacturing stands as a potent tool in addressing current environmental challenges through responsible practices. In today’s landscape, businesses can diminish their negative environmental footprint, enhance efficiency and competitiveness, and fortify consumer relations. The transition towards sustainable manufacturing marks a crucial step toward the industrial future.
At VYNMSA we are committed to a sustainable future, which is why we offer the necessary infrastructure so that companies seeking to establish themselves in Mexico have an ideal space to implement sustainable manufacturing. Get to know our industrial buildings and the strategic locations we have in Mexico.
