How Engineering Companies in the UK Can Reduce Their Carbon Footprint

As the UK continues to aim  towards a net-zero economy, and a more sustainable future, engineering companies have a vital role to play in reducing carbon emissions.

With more than 80% of FTSE 100 firms already making public commitments to reach Net Zero by 2050, the engineering sector is no exception to this growing trend. Companies must innovate and implement strategies that lower their environmental impact without sacrificing economic growth.

Sustainability is becoming a requirement… but also a business advantage. According to a survey, 56% of consumers would be more loyal to a brand if they saw it actively reducing its carbon footprint, and 32% are willing to pay more for goods and services that help lower emissions.

Here’s how engineering companies in the UK can effectively reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future, while staying competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious marketplace.

1. Transition to Renewable Energy Sources

In the UK, engineering companies can make a significant impact by switching to renewable energy sources. With the government encouraging a shift towards green energy, many engineering firms have begun adopting renewable energy strategies.

• On-site renewable energy generation: Many companies are installing solar panels, wind turbines, and other systems at their facilities to help generate renewable and clean energy. This helps to reduce the carbon footprint of these businesses.
• Switching to green energy suppliers: Many energy providers in the UK now offer 100% renewable electricity tariffs. By switching to these suppliers, engineering firms can immediately reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.

2. Improve Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a key factor in reducing a company’s carbon emissions. The UK’s engineering sector, which can be energy intensive with manufacturing, have the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint and costs by optimising their energy usage.

• Adopt energy-efficient equipment: Upgrading machinery, HVAC systems, and lighting can significantly lower a companies energy consumption, helping to reduce their carbon footprint.
• Purchase used or refurbished machines: Buying second-hand machinery from suppliers like Blue Diamond Machine Tools can significantly contribute to reducing emissions. Used machines helps extend the lifecycle, reducing the need for manufacturing new equipment, which requires raw material extraction and energy intense manufacturing. This approach not only cuts down on emissions but also supports a circular economy, helping engineering companies lower costs while working towards a sustainable future.
• Smart energy management systems: A smart energy management system promotes the highest level of energy conservation. Investing in smart energy management technologies enables companies to monitor and control energy use in real-time, identifying inefficiencies and making adjustments accordingly. This reduces emissions and helps create a more sustainable future.

3. Invest in Low-Carbon Materials

Materials sourcing has a large carbon footprint, particularly in sectors like construction and manufacturing. By adopting sustainable acquisition policies, engineering companies can reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a sustainable future.

• Use recycled or sustainable materials: Opting for recycled steel, aluminium, and other materials, or sourcing low-carbon alternatives, helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with material extraction and processing, while targeting the 56% of consumers and turning them into loyal customers.
• Local sourcing: Reducing the distance materials must travel can drastically cut transportation-related emissions. By partnering with local suppliers, engineering companies can reduce their carbon footprint and their overall costs.

4. Optimise Transportation and Logistics

In the UK transportation accounts for 29.1% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Optimising logistics gives the opportunity for companies to MASSIVELY reduce their carbon footprint, while lowering their transportation costs and increasing profit.

• Electric and hybrid vehicles: Transitioning to electric (EV) or hybrid fleets for transporting materials, goods, and staff can significantly reduce emissions and contribute to a sustainable future.
• Route optimisation and logistics improvements: Using technology to optimise routes and streamline logistics can help reduce fuel consumption and minimise emissions, further helping companies reduce their carbon footprint.

5. Implement Circular Economy Practices

The circular economy is a model that encourages recycling, reusing, and refurbishing products to minimise waste and resource consumption. Engineering companies in the UK can greatly benefit from adopting circular practices that reduce their carbon footprint and costs.

• Minimise waste: Reducing material waste through lean manufacturing practices helps companies lower emissions and costs while promoting a sustainable future.
• Invest In Machine Servicing: By investing in machine servicing and refurbishment, you extend the lifecycle of machines not only reducing carbon footprint, but significantly lowering the costs. It is possible to do this inhouse, but using a machine servicing and refurbishment company like Blue Diamond Machine Tools LTD who offer slideway grinding as part of their machine servicing process can lead to a better overall result.

6. Buy Used Machines to Reduce Carbon Footprint

Another effective way for engineering companies to reduce their carbon footprint is by purchasing used or refurbished machines. Instead of buying new equipment, sourcing used machinery from suppliers like Blue Diamond Machine Tools helps reduce the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing, shipping, and disposing of new machines.

• Extend the lifecycle of equipment: Purchasing used machines extends the useful life of machinery, helping companies reduce their carbon footprint by minimising the need for new production and reducing the use of raw materials while offering huge potential savings on quality machines.
• Lower embedded carbon emissions: By using refurbished machines, companies can avoid the significant carbon emissions involved in producing and transporting new equipment. This not only supports a sustainable future but also offers cost savings.