The UK government’s recentlyannounced ten-year plan for a “modern” Industrial Strategy, outlined in the Invest 2035 White Paper is promising for all sectors of industry. It aligns perfectly with the vision we have for sustainable smart factories, with aims to drive long-term, sustainable growth across key sectors, including advanced manufacturing. (The White Paper can be downloaded from https://drivesncontrols.news/ uslts) Sustainable smart factories are becoming the main focus of many manufacturers and end-users. With pressures from all sides, including government, there is a greater need to implement smart factories around the UK and worldwide. Energy eciency is one of the key drivers. If ecient technologies, such as higheciency motors and LED lighting, are adopted, the goal of cutting energy consumption in manufacturing processes becomes more achievable, while simultaneously keeping costs low. Along with energy eciency, it is imperative that manufacturers also focus on resource eciency. Costs of exporting are constantly rising and with uncertain political and economical pressures, there is no way of knowing if or when this may change. Manufacturers must therefore strategise circular economy principles, minimising waste and maximising the use of resources. If the right advice is provided, manufacturers can use advanced analytics to monitor and optimise their energy usage across their factories and harness renewable energy sources. The more attention that is paid to these areas, the faster that sustainable smart factories can be achieved. I’ve spoken about this often before, and it remains a topic of conversation for Gambica’s industrial automation members. The focus on digital transformation needs not only to continue, but to improve. With the Invest 2035 White Paper discussing heavy investments in digital technologies and innovation, it could be the perfect time for our industry to shine. Leveraging digital technologies such as IoT, AI and machine learning can improve eciency and help to reduce waste. From supply chain logistics, to transportation, monitoring and control, there are so many areas within the factory where digital technologies can be adopted. There is no single answer, but multiple dierent approaches and strategies may be needed to maximise the use of these technologies. One area of focus that must not be forgotten is the future generation. Sustainability means more to them that it did 20 years ago, and can be pivotal when they are looking for their ideal employer. Engineering and manufacturing roles have suered from negative portrayals in the media, and the wrong language has been used to describe the functions and benets of the roles. This is improving, but we cannot let it slip away by not focusing on what the future workforce nds attractive in a role. This is crucial for building a workforce capable of driving sustainable practices in manufacturing. As younger generations become more conscious of environmental issues, businesses are under pressure to adopt ecofriendly strategies. By embracing sustainable manufacturing, UK manufacturers can not only reduce their environmental impact, but also enhance their brand reputation and attract top talent, particularly in the engineering eld. By taking these steps, UK manufacturers can create more sustainable, ecient and attractive workplaces. Not only will this benet the environment, but it will also position businesses for long-term success in a competitive global market. The principles of the UK's Modern Industrial Strategy can help manufacturers to accelerate their transition to sustainable smart factories. This will not only benet the environment, but also enhance their competitiveness, attract investment, and create high-quality jobs. Along with this, a focus on designing products with end-of-life considerations, making them easier to disassemble and recycle, and also developing repair and refurbishment programs to extend the lifespan of products can allow our industry to excel and become more attractive in years to come. Manufacturers and end-users must create workplace cultures that prioritise sustainability and empower employees to contribute to eco-friendly initiatives. This does not have to be achieved alone. There are numerous associations, such Gambica, the Catapults and Knowledge Transfer Networks, that can help businesses to understand what’s right for them. Understanding that your competitors and the wider industry have the same best practice targets and goals, will help to champion UK manufacturing. n * Gambica is the trade association for the automation, control, instrumentation and laboratory technology sectors in the UK. You can get in touch with Nikesh Mistry on 020 7642 8094 or nikesh.mistry@gambica.org.uk, or via the Gambica Web site: www.gambica.org.uk We must plan for a sustainable future The Government’s recently published White Paper on a “modern industrial strategy” outlines its vision for the future of manufacturing in the UK. Nikesh Mistry*, Gambica’s sector head for automation, believes that it could form the basis for a sustainable manufacturing sector that could attract new talent and compete on the international stage. November/December 2024 www.drivesncontrols.com 44
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