Green & Lean: Decarbonizing our own processes
In the spirit of Lean & Green, we decided to take action within our own company to align with emissions reduction objectives and contribute to the battle against climate change.
Lean & Green is an integrated approach that combines Lean management principles with sustainability practices to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It focuses on eliminating waste, optimizing processes, and enhancing environmental responsibility.
This approach encourages continuous improvement, metrics-driven decision-making, and active employee engagement while often resulting in cost savings.
Our journey started with a deep dive into the philosophy of Green & Lean and a comprehensive carbon footprint analysis.
Our primary goal was to gather quantitative data, using, once again, a trusty Excel spreadsheet, to meticulously describe all incoming and outgoing flows of our company over the course of a year.
This analysis was instrumental in uncovering promising avenues for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Furthermore, we sought to instill a heightened awareness among our colleagues and establish a standard for measuring annual reductions.
Our carbon footprint assessment encompassed a thorough evaluation of 22 different types of activities, resulting in a clear map of GHG-emitting flows within our organization. We also proactively identified opportunities to trim our energy expenses.
The result of our dedicated efforts was nothing short of remarkable.
- We achieved an impressive reduction of GHG emissions, cutting our emissions to 34.6% of the industrial sector’s average emissions per million euros of revenue.
- In terms of emissions per employee, our reduction amounted to 24% compared to the average in our sector.
- Beyond the environmental benefits, the implementation of these actions translated into substantial cost savings for our company annually.
“Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.”
Peter Drucker
Recognizing the imperative of addressing climate change risks and minimizing our own wasteful practices, we took bold steps.
Our Business Excellence team underwent eco-design training, targeting the elimination of unnecessary parts, sub-assemblies, and non-value-added tasks.
We also conducted awareness campaigns and climate fresco among our team members, focusing on recycling and environmentally responsible practices.
Equally important, we equipped all our departments with the necessary tools and resources to facilitate these initiatives.
Notably, we directed special attention to activities associated with freight, transportation, and responsible travel, which accounted for a significant % of our company’s emissions.
Lastly, the ethos of “sobriety” has become ingrained not only in our corporate strategy but also within our Kaizen, underscoring our unwavering commitment to Lean & Green principles.
Green & Lean: Here’s a recap of our impactful actions
- Efficient energy use: We achieved a significant reduction in energy consumption by enhancing equipment efficiency, integrating renewable energy sources, and harnessing waste heat.
Action : We installed programmable thermostats and switched to energy-efficient LED lighting to reduce energy consumption significantly. Additionally, we established a routine equipment maintenance schedule to ensure optimal efficiency. - Water conservation: Our company made strides in conserving water through hydraulic circuit optimization, water recycling, and the adoption of dry processes.
Action : In our office spaces and employee facilities, we implemented low-flow faucets and toilets, leading to a substantial reduction in water usage. We also embraced rainwater harvesting for our landscaping needs. - Waste minimization: We embraced zero waste principles, streamlined waste sorting and valorization, and embraced circular economy practices to curb waste production.
Action : We introduced a comprehensive recycling program across the company and encouraged employees to use reusable containers for lunches and snacks. Collaborating with local recycling centers for responsible waste disposal became a cost-effective solution. - Transportation efficiency: Through optimized logistics, alternative transportation modes, and pooling resources, we successfully reduced emissions associated with transportation.
Action : To cut commuting-related emissions, we promoted carpooling among employees, electric bike and introduced options for remote work. We implemented cars electric charging stations to minimize fuel consumption. - Travel sustainability: Promoting telecommuting, carpooling, and public transportation helped us minimize emissions tied to employee travel.
Action : Recognizing the importance of reducing travel emissions, we encouraged video conferences instead of in-person meetings whenever possible. When travel was necessary, we incentivized the use of public transportation, railway ionstead of airplanes or the use of remote interactive smart glasses when possible with clients. - Responsible procurement: We placed emphasis on local, responsible, and certified suppliers to reduce emissions associated with purchases.
Action : We prioritized local suppliers and those with eco-friendly certifications, contributing to reduced emissions associated with transportation. Additionally, we consolidated orders to minimize shipping frequency, further lowering our carbon footprint. - Product environmental impact: Our commitment to eco-design, the use of recycled/recyclable materials, and the provision of associated services contributed to the reduction of our products’ environmental footprint.
Action : To reduce our products’ environmental footprint, we have rethink their design and packaging to be more eco-friendly, minimizing consumption and waste. We also explored the use of recycled materials or new methods like 3D printing in our product manufacturing.
These practical examples illustrate how Lean & Green principles, when applied with creativity and determination, can lead to significant reductions in emissions and cost savings while fostering a culture of sustainability within our company.
Lean & Green is an ongoing process of continuous improvement. Organizations are encouraged to regularly assess their operations, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to reduce waste and environmental impact further.
By sharing our journey and the tangible benefits we’ve reaped, we hope to inspire others, including SMEs, to embark on their Lean & Green voyage, reducing GHG emissions, driving efficiency, and contributing to a more sustainable future, one company at a time.
Lean & Green isn’t just a theoretical concept for us; it’s a practical, results-driven approach that we’ve embraced within our own company.
In summary, Embracing lean & green: Our journey to reduce emissions and drive sustainability
- Lean & Green integration: Combines Lean management principles with sustainability practices to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It’s an holistic approach focusing on eliminating waste, optimizing processes, and fostering environmental responsibility.
- Continuous improvement: Encourages ongoing assessment, metrics-driven decision-making, and active employee engagement.
- Carbon footprint analysis: Started with a comprehensive carbon footprint analysis to identify opportunities for GHG emission reduction.
- Waste reduction: Embraced zero waste principles, recycling programs, and circular economy practices to minimize waste.
- Efficient transportation: Optimized logistics, promoted carpooling, and encouraged the use of public transportation to reduce emissions.
- Sustainable travel: Encouraged telecommuting and video conferences to minimize travel-related emissions.
- Responsible procurement: Prioritized local, responsible, and certified suppliers to reduce emissions related to purchases.
- Eco-Friendly products: Redesigned product packaging and explored recycled materials to reduce the environmental impact of products.
- Employee engagement: Actively involved employees and raised awareness through campaigns and training.
“The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth.”
Marlee Matlin
Happy CEO 