Sustainable manufacturing and your future

Almost everything we do today and in the future is about sustainability and protecting the planet, and that includes sustainable manufacturing. It's more important than ever to find a balance between advancing technology, meeting consumer demands, and being environmentally responsible.

Manufacturers, suppliers, policymakers, researchers, and environmentally conscious consumers unite to drive innovation and knowledge exchange. This push propels the industry forward, accelerating the adoption of environmentally focused practices and inspiring solutions to globally shared challenges.

Sustainable manufacturing refers to producing goods to minimize negative environmental, social, and economic impacts while maximizing positive outcomes for a better world. Sustainable manufacturing integrates sustainability principles throughout production, from raw material sourcing, production, distribution, product use, and disposal.

State of Manufacturing Report?

54% of leaders believe improving supply chain visibility is the top priority.

88% of companies have implemented AI into its manufacturing and supply chains.

47% of leaders report economic headwinds as critical to overall company strategy.

Balancing economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility can create a more holistic and long-term approach to production that benefits both businesses and the planet. The most critical goals of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) manufacturing are about balancing profitability and sustainability. Many benefits come with sustainable manufacturing.

The benefits of implementing sustainable practices

• Build trust, improve your brand reputation, and satisfy stakeholders.
• Reduce GHG (GHG) emissions, streamline waste management, and increase environmental performance.
• Promote regulatory and industry compliance.
• Save money and reduce operational costs.
• Engage employees and enhance talent recruitment and retention.
• Create resilience against future uncertainty and help your organization rapidly adapt to change.

Challenges

Direct GHG emissions from the manufacturing industry account for 23 percent of total US GHGs, making it the third largest contributor to direct US greenhouse gas emissions, creating a hurdle.

One of the biggest hurdles for sustainable manufacturing is the cost. Oftentimes, goods and products that are marked as green or sustainable are more expensive than ones that aren't. The demand is less for sustainable products but that’s shifting as more people are willing to pay more for sustainable goods. Many factors contribute to higher production costs.?

Another challenge is the complexity of the supply chain. Sustainability in supply chain management isn't just about environmental considerations. You also should consider social and labor issues. Valid concerns about worker exploitation, inadequate working conditions, child labor, and human rights violations are rife in the supply chain industry; adding sustainability to that makes it even more complex. Companies should monitor this, confirming that the proper policies and procedures are adhered to.

Regulatory compliance is yet another challenge that can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Manufacturers should comply with an ever-increasing and ever-changing number of environmental regulations. Providing compliance while maintaining cost-effectiveness can be a challenge, but there’s support that’s offered to make sure you're covered.

Emissions and pollution also play a big role when it comes to sustainable manufacturing. This can be challenging, especially for industries with high levels of emissions. The primary source of environmental deterioration is industrial pollution. It’s the fundamental factor that transforms harsh climates into natural catastrophes.

Despite these challenges, there are established frameworks and resources that can guide manufacturers toward more sustainable practices.

Sustainable manufacturing solutions

While several standards relate to sustainability and manufacturing, what you choose depends on your needs. The following standards can support your organization on your sustainable manufacturing journey.

The Environmental Management System (ISO 14001) is an international standard that contributes to a healthier planet. It can help your organization enhance environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and waste reduction, achieving a competitive advantage and stakeholder trust.

This standard provides a framework through which you can measure and continually improve your environmental performance meeting the specific needs of your business. BSI’s expertise in implementing or certifying an environmental management system can help companies become more efficient and resilient in its operations every step of the way.

Another standard to be considered is the Energy Management System (ISO 50001). Organizations across the world are facing rising energy costs and changing availability. To improve your energy efficiency and progress toward a sustainable world, the focus shifts to increasing your use of sustainable energy and lowering your reliance on fossil fuels. This standard can help you achieve these goals and manage the risks surrounding your energy supply. ISO 50001 helps to improve your energy efficiency, stay both current and compliant with legislation, and be ready ahead of time.

Carbon neutrality should also be considered. It's increasingly important to demonstrate your organization’s carbon neutrality, show you’re serious about sustainability, respond to climate change, and contribute to the UN Strategic Development Goals.

Starting January 1, 2025, BSI will no longer offer PAS 2060. Carbon Neutrality (ISO 14068) will replace it, giving guidance on achieving and showing carbon neutrality. It highlights the importance of measuring, reducing, and offsetting carbon footprints. The standard follows a step-by-step approach, prioritizing direct and indirect reductions in (GHG) emissions and improving carbon removals within the value chain before evaluating offsetting opportunities. This standard allows an organization to purchase offset credits to achieve carbon neutrality while making incremental reductions to emissions.

Conclusion

Sustainability in the manufacturing sector aims to balance economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility, creating a more holistic and long-term approach to production that benefits both businesses and the planet.

Enhance your manufacturing processes to promote resilience and compliance. BSI can help you manage sustainability challenges through collaborative standards, supporting your journey toward a sustainable future. Together, we aim to make operations more useful and processes more vigorous while pursuing manufacturing excellence. But what makes excellence, and how can your organization achieve it?