It’s true that manufacturers should invest in green initiatives. Not only is this better for the environment, but it’s good for business. Here’s more information about how small manufacturers should make more of an effort to go green:
Green Initiatives Are Rising
According to ASSEMBLY Magazine’s State of the Profession study, green manufacturing initiatives are on the rise, more so among large manufacturers:
Large manufacturers (companies with 1,000 or more employees) are more likely to be involved with green initiatives. For example, 73 percent of assemblers in that category have implemented sustainability programs during the last 12 months. On the other hand, only 19 percent of small manufacturers (companies with fewer than 50 employees) have gone green.
Why Are Manufacturer’s Hesitant?
So, what’s the hold up for small manufacturers? Mainly, cost. Small manufacturers simply don’t have the resources available to take part in the large-scale green initiatives that large manufacturers are taking part in:
Small manufacturers (companies with less than 50 employees) are more likely to engage in more basic sustainability programs, such as paper and plastic recycling (57 percent) and energy-efficient lighting (45 percent). However, they are less willing to invest in more expensive initiatives, such as solar panels (3 percent).
On the other hand, manufacturers with more than 2,000 employees are more likely to be involved in wastewater treatment (42 percent), solar panels (33 percent) and wind turbines (17 percent).
It’s Important to Go Green
While budget restrains are always an issue for a small business, no matter what industry they are in, small manufacturers should still go green. It should be viewed as an investment and not as a cost. In addition to being good for the environment, green initiatives can improve the bottom line long term. Manufacturing buyers are looking to make purchases from companies that have business practices in line with their own sustainability goals. In addition, going green can attract younger employees that are more likely to be environmentally conscious.
How Manufacturers Can Go Green
How can small manufacturers go green? Every little bit helps. To start, power off equipment when it’s not in use; everything from your power machines in the plant down to the computers and printers at employees’ desks. Speaking of printers, cut back on your printing as much as possible and print double sided copies.
Think about replacing equipment in your office or plant with energy-efficient models. You don’t need to wait for the equipment to break down to do this. Calculate how much money you will save with the energy-efficient model. When will positive ROI be achieved? Remember, it’s an investment and not a cost.
Let’s not forget that when it comes to manufacturing, producing green products is a part of the equation as well. Your customers are likely moving towards green initiatives and a part of doing so is determining how green suppliers are. Eliminate unnecessary waste and use recycled and recyclable packaging.
The following statement from manufacturing.net applies to manufacturers of all sizes:
What was once a fad has now become mandatory for manufacturers to not only maintain corporate responsibility, but to positively impact the bottom line.
Contact Fishman Corporation for more information about this.