One of the main aspects of the ecological transition for an industrial company is the issue of waste. Today, most companies see it as a constraint, but it can be an opportunity. First of all, considering waste management means raising the question of where it comes from and can be an opportunity to review your production processes in order to limit waste and perhaps optimize the use of your resources. For example, a company that manufactures steel or castings may recycle obsolete non-conforming parts and thus reinject new parts into the circuit, or companies that have revised their manufacturing process to cut two products from the same part instead of one.
With the health crisis, international supply chains have been disrupted and, in some cases, even changed in the long term. This has been an opportunity for some companies to switch to local sourcing or for others to outsource certain processes again. And if being able to juggle between different sites, different countries, is a source of greater flexibility than 100% offshored production, it has also enabled some companies to reduce their environmental impact, speed up their manufacturing process, etc.
Beyond the short-term reaction, some companies plan to maintain this new organization. For others, it may be the ideal time to rethink their supply and production channels to recycle materials. Good examples are the recycling of automobile tires or the maintenance of electric turbine blades. ( Rolls Royce ).
However, it is not an easy exercise because it is not a decision that can be taken lightly. It is necessary to analyze the impacts in detail.
To go further, companies can even move towards a zero waste approach, to close material cycles, dematerialize products and economic activities, etc. Finally, a company committed to reducing its waste and optimizing its treatment will improve its image in the eyes of its customers, partners and employees.
Recycling of materials: the transition to ecology and energy
Another argument for placing Recycling Materials at the center of your business in 2022 is that the European government plans to spend €30 billion on the ecological transition. New markets and projects will be opened and developed, such as the decarbonization of the economy, energy sobriety, green innovations, etc… so many new opportunities and new solutions for industrial companies…
3D printing, a strategic link to additive manufacturing
Although 3D printing and additive manufacturing are often criticized for producing waste during the product design process, this is regardless of the raw material savings it allows compared to traditional production methods.
In addition, 3D printing is increasingly used in repair processes when spare parts are no longer available. It is a real tool for limiting product obsolescence and can help build customer loyalty (after-sales service).
