With so much misinformation, fake news and ‘greenwashing’ it can be really hard to separate noise from ‘real’ facts when it comes to climate change and the move to a more sustainable future.
As small manufacturing companies we need clear guidance. Support to navigate the science so we can start to understand what actions are needed to reduce emissions and in turn, reduce our impact on climate change.
Manufacture2030 state that as an industry, manufacturing accounts for 36% of global emissions. So, if we are to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) everyone needs to step up and play their part.
It can be hard for any company to get the ball rolling though, especially small manufacturing companies.
The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) are a good starting point and help establish a framework for responsible manufacture alongside a carbon reducing strategy.
What are Sustainable Development Goals?
The UN sustainable goals (SDG’s) have been around since 2015 and were set up to tackle the Social, economic, and environmental issues being faced globally - to help end poverty and drive forward a sustainable future. In total, seventeen specific goals were established to help break down these vast challenges into bitesize, actionable chunks.
‘The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030’.
What are the Benefits?
Whilst the ultimate responsibility of achieving goals lie with Government, it is clear that manufacturing companies can help determine their success (PWC). With seventeen goals listed it would be overwhelming for any SME company to contemplate tackling all goals, especially where resource and investment may well be limited. Goals 7, 8, 9, 12 and 13 are the most relevant for manufacturers and can work well in a carbon reducing strategy.
By aligning your business with select SDG’s, you stand to increase efficiencies throughout your business from energy and waste reduction and have an increased focus on innovation to help deliver improvements.
Evidence indicates that consumers and large companies are now driving the need for carbon evidence and reduction policies. Ambitious carbon statements by the likes of BMW, Apple and Siemens will demand change within the supply chain. By establishing a carbon strategy early on, one that delivers action and provides evidence, will help to secure existing business and open doors to new opportunities.
In the race to carbon zero, brand reputation, clear communication and trust will be crucial for survival.
For a more in-depth review on how to approach your path to carbon neutrality and manufacturing responsibility, check out our 5 Tips to Carbon Neutrality.
Midas Pattern Company - leading the charge in responsible RIM moulding manufacture.
Check out the #MidasgreenInitiative for more insight.