Best Practices in Eco-Friendly Innovation for Manufacturing and Materials Handling Industries

For many manufacturers, the prospect of moving towards eco-friendly solutions is very much front of mind; however, implementing the necessary changes is easier said than done. There are many available options for saving not only the bottom line, but the environment.

Recycling

Recycling is something that people have been doing for decades. Despite this, many businesses’ recycling efforts are not as effective as they could be. Implementing this notion across a manufacturing floor can be difficult. A solid recycling process is imperative to making the most of recycling efforts.

Streamlining inventory and warehousing

Streamlining is key. Inefficiencies in production can be costly to the business and to the environment. It is worth spending money to properly evaluate any inefficient processes in order to implement savings strategies.

Use low-impact and recycled materials

Recycling your own waste materials is one thing—but is your business completing the cycle by purchasing recycled products? Recycled paper for the office is just the beginning. Many packaging firms are now offering eco-friendly options, such as recycled plastics.

Green machines

Technology in machinery is advancing at an incredible rate. Driverless technology can cut down on wasted time and energy costs by avoiding human error. But this is only the beginning. Hydrogen powered forklifts are another innovation which are already proving their worth in the industrial sector.

Invest in maintenance

The phrase ‘working like a well-oiled machine’ is a cliché for a reason: maintenance is important. Not only do poorly maintained machines cost a business in downtime, they also require replacement of parts at an accelerated rate.

Solar power

Solar technology, while not a new concept, is becoming increasingly more affordable and reliable. Storage is becoming more advanced. Energy is a huge cost to manufacturers, and is perhaps the largest single area for savings potential in the industry.

Editor's note: This is a sponsored post from Radwell International.