Businesses of all sizes can make changes that benefit the environment and society at large, as well as improve profits and shareholder value, explains a new white paper looking at sustainability within manufacturing.

While marking and coding key data such as best-before-expiry dates and lot numbers onto products is critical, the process generates waste and, depending on the technology required, can involve hazardous chemicals. A white paper released today looks at how to minimize the impact of such activities as well as tips for manufacturing sustainability more generally.

Drawing from external sources and examples, while using Markem-Imaje itself as a case study, it discusses the importance of having an Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) program and illustrates the benefits achievable through the application of a 6-step process.

“Over the last 7 years, we’ve managed to cut our carbon emissions by 40% and produce 18% less waste,” says Stéphane Cotte, Markem-Imaje’s Director of EHS. “Additionally, we’ve been able reduce our water and energy consumption by nearly a third.”

“Our new product development is undertaken with sustainability in mind,” adds S é bastien Marcel, Product Compliance Manager at the company. “For example, to help safeguard future compliance should any new directive be introduced, we have a completely self-imposed, pre-emptive list of prohibited and restricted substances which we could legally use – for now – but won’t.”

Mr. Marcel continues: “This forces us to seek creative solutions before we need to. In fact, it is thinking like this that helped us first create MEK-free inks several years ago, which not only benefited the environment but also enhanced operator safety and comfort."

The white paper also outlines the various technologies used in the coding and marking process and provides a brief overview of the environmental impact of each, as well as suggestions on how to mitigate such effects before, during and after production. It also discusses how “green” initiatives and partnering with suppliers having aligned sustainability priorities can improve competitiveness and financial performance.

To receive a free copy of the white paper, please visit:
http://www.markem-imaje.com/sustainability-white-paper.