Manufacturers are a significant source of negative environmental impact due to energy intensive processes. Manufacturers are certainly aware of this, but are often missing out on opportunities to reduce their environmental impact associated with their core operations. Why?
There Are Concerns With Changing Production Technique
Many manufacturers worry that changing production techniques to address environmental concerns will result not only in huge costs, but will also negatively impact quality and/or productivity. Budgets are tight and if the current process works well, why change? According to a McKinsey & Company report:
These manufacturers should reconsider. Our experience suggests that a significant fraction of the energy consumption in many manufacturing operations comes not from what is being done (the process), but in the way it is being done (the management). Simple operational changes designed to maximize energy efficiency can cut overall consumption by as much as 15 percent, with little or no capital investment.
Searching for the Lowest Capital Cost
At first glance, purchasing low cost equipment seems appealing. What isn’t being taken into consideration (but should be) is the total cost of ownership (TCO) of equipment. Manufacturers can reduce both costs (over the lifetime of a piece of equipment) and energy consumption by investing in more energy efficient alternatives.
Negative Employee Mindset
It’s necessary to encourage a positive attitude towards energy efficiency among all employees. All employees need to be on board, from the CEO to the workers on the shop floor. Every person makes a difference. It starts at the top, which is why management should create incentives to improve energy efficiency across the company as well as involve all employees by asking for their ideas regarding the initiative. In fact, improving environmental performance is something that can create considerable enthusiasm among staff in many companies, per McKinsey & Company.
Are you wondering how your company can become more energy efficient? Contact Fishman Corporationfor more information.