Did you know that this month is Plastic-Free July? Therefore, it is the perfect time to discuss sustainable practices in EMS. Cheap, durable, and versatile plastic has made the world dependent on it. However, without efficient recycling practices, waste disposal causes a huge environmental problem.

Furthermore, over half of the 9.2 billion tonnes of plastic manufactured since the 1950s ended up as waste. Consequently, this contributes significantly to the growing environmental crisis. In addition, international standards such as ISO 14001 guidelines help companies manage their environmental responsibilities effectively.

Because plastic accounts for approximately 20% of components within electrical devices, manufacturers must improve their processes. So, how can the electronics industry sustain effective recycling practices? Even better, how can manufacturers cut down on plastic entirely?

To minimise environmental impact, electronic products and packaging should ideally be made with 100% recycled materials. However, achieving this is nearly impossible with plastic alone. Therefore, companies typically use only a small percentage of rehashed plastic in products. Fortunately, reliable ways exist for electronics manufacturers to cut plastic use and implement sustainable practices in EMS…

The European Commission’s policy states that up to 80% of environmental impacts are determined at the design stage. Indeed, it is easy to see why this occurs. Although customers design products, manufacturers select materials, components, and suppliers. Consequently, this influences overall recyclability and end-of-life disposal. To improve these processes, manufacturers should minimise material variety. Alternatively, they can switch to single-material designs to avoid plastic. Furthermore, sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers remains essential.

As the UK cracks down on single-use items, electronics manufacturing should follow suit. This includes bans on various single-use plastics taking effect. Therefore, to minimise waste, manufacturers must keep plastics within active use cycles. They achieve this by repurposing materials and using recycled plastic for components and packaging.

Many digital devices feature excessive plastic wrapping. This packaging contributes to waste and deters eco-conscious consumers. In fact, 74% of consumers prefer sustainable packaging. Thankfully, new developments help manufacturers incorporate green designs into wrapping solutions.

For example, moulded fibre has emerged as a popular recyclable alternative. Made from bamboo and sugarcane, it is shock-proof and moisture-resistant. Additionally, cornstarch foam offers another great packaging alternative. It can be created in bespoke shapes to protect products. Finally, users dispose of it by composting or dissolving it in water.

From the beginning, EC Electronics delivered finished products in reusable tote boxes with collapsible dividers. As customers use products at their factories, empty containers are stacked together. Eventually, they return to us during our next delivery.

We use the exact same boxes 16 years later for current product generations. During that time, we successfully delivered 170,000 pieces! Now, one of our key initiatives focuses on reducing packaging overall.

We identified three specific elements where we use packaging and will address each individually. Each manufacturing site features a trained packaging ‘champion’. This person ensures all products follow precise packaging specifications. Thus, they use minimal packaging materials while guaranteeing safety in transit.

Plus, we gifted our head office reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste. This small step supports a company-wide reduction in plastic usage. Ultimately, it helps colleagues consider daily plastic consumption.

We know that we still have a long way to go. However, our ISO 14001:2015 certification ensures we constantly improve our environmental footprint. Furthermore, we actively encourage our peers to do the same.

Are you ready to take positive steps toward a greener future? Learn more about our sustainability initiatives today. Alternatively, contact our team at +44 (0)1256 461894 or email sales@ec.local to discover how we can help with your next electronics manufacturing project.