Wales is aiming high when it comes to sustainability, with hopes to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The public sector is also expected to be carbon neutral by 2030. For businesses, especially factories and manufacturing plants, this does present some ambitious sustainability targets.
However, there are a number of ways these facilities are successfully aligning with Wales’ net zero goals. So, let’s take a look at some of the on-site changes industrial businesses are making to increase sustainability and prepare for a low-carbon future.
Carbon-Focused Initiatives
There are a number of facilities in Wales which are lowering the level of carbon emissions associated with their manufacturing processes.
From cutting back on travel and switching to electric vehicles, to sourcing materials locally and recycling where possible, businesses are doing everything they can to lower their carbon footprint.
Many companies are also utilising carbon capture innovations. This advanced technology traps carbon dioxide before it enters the atmosphere, which is then either repurposed or stored safely underground, to limit its effect on the environment.
Switching to Renewable Energy Sources
The Welsh Government’s TfW Rail and public sector decarbonisation programmes are driving increased demand for on-site renewables across industrial sites. This, in turn, is boosting the popularity of solar panels for factories.
This is largely because, out of all the renewable energy options, solar panels are usually the most straightforward to install, as factories, warehouses, and distribution centres all typically have vast, flat roofs which are ideal for solar panel installation.
Rooftop solar combined with battery storage can reduce grid dependency by 40-60% for sites with high daytime energy loads. So, not only are solar panels helping businesses reduce their carbon emissions, but they’re also increasing energy reliability and lowering overheads.
Replacing Old and Inefficient Appliances
Factories are notorious for wasting energy. Whether its corridor lighting in low-traffic areas or running air conditioning while the building is empty, resources are often being squandered.
To combat this, many factories are switching to more efficient lighting options and HVAC systems, installing motion sensors in lower traffic areas, and using smart systems that regulate temperatures while the building is unoccupied.
The Future of Sustainability in the Industrial Sector is Looking Promising
With ambitious carbon emission goals to meet, Welsh companies are having to invest more into carbon-focused initiatives, renewable energy, and energy efficiency than ever before. However, this does mean the future of the planet is looking a little more promising.
