What is sustainability?

Sustainability is a holistic concept that encompasses economic, social and environmental aspects and aims to create a balance between meeting the needs of the present and preserving the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Why does sustainability matter in manufacturing?

Sustainability can lead to cost savings, improve brand reputation and help companies to meet government regulations. It also can improve the company's long-term viability and brand reputation.

What standards can help manufacturers achieve sustainability?

There are many standards manufacturers can use to achieve sustainability. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is the most widely used sustainability reporting framework. Other standards like ISO 14001, ISO 26000 and U.S. Green Building Council LEED certification are useful, as well.

What challenges do manufacturers face when it comes to sustainability?

Achieving sustainability is not a straight line and manufacturers can face several challenges. It can be expensive at times, particularly if the company is replacing a lot of inefficient equipment. Companies also might not know what to track or how, which can lead to frustration. Workers might not like the changes, either, if they feel it's making their jobs harder rather than easier. Sustainability is a long-term project and not a short-term one and companies need to have a plan that reflects this.

Sustainability | Plant Engineering

Sustainability December 8, 2023

Sustainability considerations and strategies for plant automation

Sustainability remains a hot topic in manufacturing throughout, but what does it mean for plant automation and how does it affect operations?

By Plant Engineering Staff

Sustainability October 16, 2023

Honeywell Connect Recap: Digital technologies improving flexibility, sustainability

Sustainability remains a major focus for manufacturers as well as the need for smart digital technologies that can provide better intelligence for companies.

By Chris Vavra

Sustainability October 4, 2023

Study suggests energy-efficient route to capturing and converting CO2

The findings, based on a single electrochemical process, could help cut emissions from the hardest-to-decarbonize industries, such as steel and cement.

By Jennifer Chu

Sustainability September 25, 2023

Pixel-by-pixel analysis generates lithium-ion battery insights

Researchers have observed how lithium ions flow through a battery interface, which could help engineers optimize the material’s design.

By Anne Trafton

Sustainability September 18, 2023

Pack Expo Recap: Merging sustainability, automation in packaging operations

More than ever, companies expect automation and sustainability working together to reduce downtime and keep manufacturing runs smoothly.

By Chris Vavra

Courtesy: Siemens, CFE Media's New Products for Engineers Database

Sustainability September 3, 2023

Pathways to energy-efficient production and improving sustainability

Climate targets and high energy prices are forcing the industrial sector to reduce its energy consumption, making it necessary to make greater use of digitalization and automation to make production more energy efficient.

By Jonas Harant and Christian Schiller

Sustainability August 28, 2023

Hydrogen technology developed to curtail food, beverage greenhouse gases

West Virginia University researchers are developing an advanced hydrogen flexible boiler to help eliminate greenhouse gas emissions in the food and beverage industry.

By Laura Roberts