Driving Sustainability in Manufacturing

Mirjam Bruhns, Director of Operations, RECARO Aircraft Seating

The role of sustainability in manufacturing has increased significantly over the past decade. With the advancement of smart manufacturing technologies, an unprecedented number of autonomous and sustainable practices are being implemented in facilities.

Another shift is the demand from consumers to have an increased level of visibility into all company practices. To enhance accountability and transparency, companies are implementing more trackable metrics to highlight their ethical and environmentally-friendly processes. According to a survey conducted by SAP, companies that maintain a high level of visibility into their supply chain sourcing and sustainability systems have a stronger position when competing for customers. Many key industry players have implemented criteria to drive sustainable change among their suppliers, which means this topic has the capacity to be a deciding factor when selecting a partner.

Quote: “Companies that have yet to explore environmentally-friendly systems would be surprised to find that there are many economic, financial and recruiting benefits to sustainable manufacturing.”

Companies that have yet to explore environmentally-friendly systems would be surprised to find that there are many economic, financial and recruiting benefits to sustainable manufacturing. Integrating these processes isn’t as hard as one might think, as there are numerous adjustments that can boost performance of a company’s overall organization.

Benefits of Implementing Sustainable Manufacturing Practices

• Unique selling proposition – Sustainability is now a driver for economic success. It’s not enough to react to environmental regulations in the industry. Aviation suppliers must be proactively integrating sustainable and ethical strategies across their entire value chain to remain competitive.
• Cost-efficiency – By using cheaper renewable energy and relying on digitally-advanced manufacturing technology, companies can save overhead costs and improve operational efficiency. In addition, many governments incentivize environmental practices.
• Recruiting – Companies are positioning themselves as forward-thinking, sustainable organizations to attract new talent. Generation Z is very interested in making a positive impact on its community and society and is often thinking in terms of “sustainability.”