Collaboration, resource-management analysis can cut waste

Packed with actionable tips, as well as questions to spark conversations within the workplace, the U.S. Protection Agency’s Lean and Environmental Toolkit provides guidance in using lean methods to become more sustainable. The recommendations include:  

• Address sustainability in a coordinated, integrated and formal manner.  

• Prioritize increased competitiveness and revenues rather than cost-cutting, risk- reduction and improved efficiency. 

• Work collaboratively with external stakeholders. 

• Include lean and environment concepts in speeches, newsletters and other communications. 

• Encourage lean managers and environmental, health and safety (EHS) managers to collaborate on their goals. 

• Set performance goals and maintain metrics related to lean and the environment. 

The EPA also offers questions to help identify ways to prevent wasting resources. Companies need to look into what they’re using, how much they’re using and whether they can do a better job conserving or reusing resources. Some resource-specific questions include: 

Water: 

• Can you reduce contaminants in wastewater and discharges?  

Energy: 

• Is equipment running or are lights on when not being used?  

• Are you using efficient light bulbs?  

• Can you save energy by consolidating operations and/or storage space?  

• Can you shift to a cleaner source of energy? 

Chemicals and materials use: 

• What types and quantities of chemicals/materials are used in plant processes?  

• How can you reduce the overall amount of chemicals and materials used?  

• Can you switch to less harmful chemicals? 

• Can you eliminate any non-value-added use of chemicals or materials from the product or process, such excess packaging or unneeded painting?  

Air emissions: 

• How far do vehicles travel to deliver parts and supplies? 

Contact:  

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/sustainability/lean-manufacturing-and-environment