Improving industry's 'green' credentials

A new report from the Next Manufacturing Revolution (NMR) — a not-for-profit initiative comprising academics from Cambridge University plus strategy and enterprise experts — gives practical advice on how UK manufacturing can ‘clean up its act’ and boost its profits. Co-author Professor Steve Evans said: “The changes that are recommended use proven technologies and have already been implemented by pioneering companies. In many cases, they are straightforward and will deliver quick returns.”

The report claims that its recommendations can deliver significant benefits to the sector, including £10 billion per annum in additional profits and a 4.5% reduction in the UK’s ‘greenhouse gas’ emissions. It focuses on seven key areas, including waste, energy, packaging and supply-chain collaboration. These have been analysed within each of the manufacturing sub-sectors.

The NMR launched the report at an event attended by Government, companies and NGOs at the House of Commons. Business Secretary Vince Cable (pictured) said: “The report fits neatly with my objective of strengthening the manufacturing sector in a forward-looking and sustainable manner. There are many companies cited in the report as best-practice leaders, and I am very supportive of its efforts to encourage the rest of UK manufacturing to follow their lead.”

For a copy of the report, visit the Web site (www.nextmanufacturingrevolution.org).