Global warming is one phrase that evokes a lot of fear and uncertainty for our planet. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the global average sea level rose by 19 centimeters between 1901 and 2010 and is still rising, threatening over 92 million people living close to the coastline and biodiversity. Other serious issues caused by global warming include the accelerated rate of desertification, loss of biodiversity, and excessive thawing of polar ice. This is too much. At this rate, we are accelerating the world to self-destruction.

Can you imagine your siblings coming to a world where they cannot drive into the jungle to see the jaguar, lion, or elephant because they have been wiped out? We all have a duty to prevent the scenario, but the responsibility is more for the manufacturers because they are accountable for the biggest percentage of emissions causing global warming. If you have a manufacturing facility, here are five strategies that you should consider to cut down your emissions.

What is Global Warming?

Before looking at the best strategies for addressing global warming, the first step is to understand what it is. Global warming is the gradual heating of the earth's surface, including oceans and atmosphere, primarily caused by the release of Carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases, such as methane and Nitrous Oxide. Most of these gases, especially carbon dioxide, come from the burning of fossil fuels in industries, both in open and internal combustion systems. Some of the main impacts of global warming include:

• Flooding of islands and coastal cities.
• Massive thawing of glaciers on the pole.
• More devastating hurricanes.
• Loss of natural habitat and biodiversity.
• Fast rise in surface and sea temperature.
• Desertification of fertile lands.
• Increase and fast spread of diseases.
• Food shortage.

We must indicate that these issues are cross-boundary, implying that no matter who releases greenhouse gases, global warming is felt by all. So, if you are in North America, this is the best time to rethink your manufacturing facility, from the motors to conveyor belts, with the intention of increasing their efficiency.

Five Strategies for Fighting Global Warming

Global warming, as we have highlighted earlier, is a serious threat that requires urgent solutions. So, it is time to take action, and here are five strategies to get you started:

• Measure and Analyze Your Greenhouse Gas Emissions

One thing to appreciate at this point is that you cannot reduce what you do not know. Therefore, you need to start by measuring the quantity of greenhouse gases coming from your facility. This will help you to know the areas of your facility that are releasing more emissions. Is it the production line, packing unit, or waste processing department? It might be the right time to shift to more efficient pumps, transport and tools in your facility.

• Cut Down Energy Consumption

Note that cutting down emissions does not have to be direct. You can also help to reduce the greenhouse effect through actions that reduce the emissions in other areas. For example, you can buy LED lighting to cut down energy consumption. You might also want to focus on the change of behavior, such as putting off the light and computers when not in use.

• Invest in Green Equipment

The amount of emissions that your facility releases into the atmosphere is largely dependent on the infrastructure that you use. For example, diesel-fired machines are likely to release more emissions compared to electric models. Remember that it is not just the motors, but all the equipment used in your facility. So, make sure to buy HVAC, lighting, conveyor belts, boilers, and other equipment with an eco-friendly design. You should also adopt automation to enhance sustainability and efficiency of your facility.

• Fund Green Initiatives

For your facility to help address global warming, you should also consider extending support to organizations that help conservation. For example, you can help to draw huge amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by supporting greening projects. So, think of buying water pumps for such groups to pump water and support forestry projects. You can also support them financially.

• Work with Sustainable Suppliers

To make a greater impact on the environment, you should consider joining hands with other stakeholders. The best method of achieving this is working with others in the supply chain and insisting that part of the conditions for buying from them is cutting down their emissions. If they start using high-quality machinery and maintain their equipment in top condition, the synergistic effect can help to cut down emissions by a huge margin.

Conclusion

If you want to be successful in your manufacturing business, it is time to look ahead and craft ways to enhance the planet we live in. By cutting the emissions from your facility, pushing others to reduce theirs too, and supporting green initiatives, you will be helping to avert the looming global warming-related disasters and making the world a better place for all.