Introduction
Do you know that the Indian manufacturing sector is expected to touch the US$ 1 trillion mark in the next two years? Yes! With growth and development propelled by this sector, manufacturing industries are also considered responsible for humongous energy consumption and carbon emissions. However, businesses are increasingly focusing on an innovative approach to sustainable manufacturing or green manufacturing. With several environmentally friendly initiatives and strategies, the industries are reducing costs, enhancing efficiency, and improving their brand reputation. Let’s explore how switching to green aids sustainability in manufacturing and benefits the planet.
What is green manufacturing?
Green manufacturing signifies the commitment to producing goods with sustainable practices and fewer natural resources or environmental pollutants. This process strives to balance eco-friendly commitment and economic growth. With strategies like reducing waste and pollution, recycling, using sustainable materials and renewable energy, and lowering energy consumption, green manufacturing tries to mitigate the ill impact on the planet. Furthermore, showcasing their commitment towards sustainable manufacturing builds a positive reputation for companies while reducing their productive operation and costs!
Green and sustainable manufacturing practices
- Efficient alternative energy
In the fiscal year 2023, the Indian industrial sector accounted for the maximum share of energy consumption with 42 percent. One of the key practices in the quest to achieve sustainable manufacturing remains the optimisation of energy consumption. Manufacturers are now using smart technology and switching to renewable sources like solar, wind, geothermal, landfill gas, and hydropower. These aid in meeting high energy demands, cutting carbon footprint, and monitoring and reducing power usage. Switching to energy-efficient technologies with advanced machinery comes with upfront costs but they can be huge money savers in the long run.
- Lean manufacturing principles
Lean manufacturing is a reorganised production process that aims to cut down waste, maximise value, and improve efficiency. Implementing practices like continuous improvement (Kaizen), managing and minimising inventory, and scheduled production, helps in better allocation of resources and proficient processes. Furthermore, lean management fosters a culture of team bonding with more emphasis on workers’ problems, involvement, and flexibility.
- Reduced and recycled waste
Sustainability in manufacturing can be achieved by implementing recycling and ensuring valuable materials aren’t being disposed of! Safeguarding resources by minimising waste generation can contribute significantly to environmental conservation. A couple of treatment facilities or material recovery programs within the company’s premises can recycle paper, plastics, and even metals to curb the need for raw materials, thereby, cutting down both energy use and emissions caused by extraction and processing.
To ensure a holistic green manufacturing approach, efforts are being taken beyond the factory boundaries by roping the entire supply chain. Industries are collaborating with suppliers to ensure ethical sourcing of sustainable components and materials. More manufacturers seek environmental credentials (less carbon emission, energy-efficient transportation, and eco-friendly packaging) and ethical labour practices from suppliers for their evaluation. All these measures address the various ecological challenges and align businesses with global sustainability standards.
- inYantra’s sustainable and smart manufacturing
inYantra has adopted a novel solution for sustainability in manufacturing. We have switched to smart manufacturing by merging eco-friendly practices with advanced technologies. Here are two key ways on how we maintain our lead:
- Adopting organic electronics: When compared to the standard materials, organic ones are more sustainable, versatile, affordable, and power-efficient. While they guarantee excellent performance, they lessen the environmental impact.
- Combining AI and IoT: The latest technologies in manufacturing, the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have significantly improved industrial operations. They facilitate predictive maintenance that assists in lowering faults and downtime. They also strengthen product design and production efficiency.
- Exclusive RoHS/Green Line
inYantra strives to keep up with green manufacturing by meeting RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant product requirements. We host an exclusive ‘lead-free’ manufacturing line catering to PCB assemblies. Apart from PCB, we excel in transformers, plastic parts, consumables, cable sets, bare boards, etc including packaging and labelling with RoHS compliant.
Benefits of green manufacturing
- Green manufacturing impacts the environment positively by preserving ecosystems and natural resources
- Sustainable technologies and processes result in long-term cost savings, business viability, and success
- With reduced costs and waste, operational efficiency gets a push
- Public trust strengthens and the brand name becomes more reputed
- Whether the businesses want to reach potential customers with eco-friendly needs or respond to consumer demands, there’s an increase in the competitive advantage
- Sustainable companies are more creative and innovative. Their commitment to green manufacturing acts as a catalyst for innovation, spurring new technology, materials, processes, and even business structure!
- By maintaining sustainability in manufacturing, industries can better respond to regulatory constraints and make optimum utilisation of opportunities
- In several countries, sustainable manufacturing leads to significant tax deductions and credits
Conclusion
Green manufacturing comes with challenging commitments and high initial investments, but the benefits far outweigh these limitations. Moreover, sustainable manufacturing isn’t limited to being a cosmetic practice or a noble deed now but has become a matter of survival for both a healthier planet and a profitable business. With industries rushing to prove their product, operational efficiency, and business mettle, the need for sustainable manufacturing has become imperative.
inYantra can help you ace green manufacturing
To implement sustainable practices, several businesses seek outsourcing partners who can ensure eco-friendly processes in their industrial units. We at inYantra Technologies Pvt. Ltd. can help you streamline your manufacturing journey. Moreover, our commitment to using natural resources sustainably, sound waste management, and good manufacturing practices help us meet delivery timeliness by complying with all obligations and requirements. We can meet the need for highly effective RoHS-compliant products with our rich experience, trained manpower, and skill set.
Finally, we can help you integrate AI and IoT into your production process and provide you with a competitive edge. Doing so will enhance your operational performance and align your company with global environmental goals.
Consider our eco-friendly services at inYantra and lower the impact of industrial processes on our planet.