Lean Manufacturing and Sustainable Practices at UniTrak

UniTrak recognizes its responsibility to conduct business in a way that protects and improves the state of the environment for future generations. As a global supplier, we understand that the long-term well-being of society, the welfare of our employees and customers, and the continuing success of our own business depends upon our commitment to a sustainable environment.

In 2004, UniTrak committed to adopting lean manufacturing practices and techniques. Moving to Lean manufacturing was a turning point for our company, resulting in greater manufacturing efficiency, improved quality, and compressed lead times. Through Lean manufacturing, UniTrak has increased the value-added for customers, while providing the foundation for our unique product “customerization” process.

Lean manufacturing techniques lie at the heart of sustainable business practices. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) assessment of Lean manufacturing and its environmental impact, Lean initiatives can have a positive trickle-down effect on the environment. By targeting the “Seven Wastes,” Lean practices can reduce the environmental impacts and consequences of many manufacturing processes (see table below from the EPA website).

Source: http://www.epa.gov/lean/environment/benefits.htm

At UniTrak, there is a continuous effort to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible to create a more sustainable manufacturing process and promote environmental stewardship. Here are some of the reductions in environmental impacts that Lean manufacturing has had within our manufacturing facility:

Reduce:
• Installation of low energy lighting
• Partnering with sustainable vendors
• Paint process improvements
• Laser cutter adoption to improve material yields and reduce scrap
• Implementation of a CNC router to reduce plastic waste
• Installation of a new energy efficient roof resulting in a substantial decline in heating costs,
• Installation of timers to conserve energy on air conditioning, heating and machinery

Reuse:
• Refurbishment of existing process equipment,
• Plant is powered by 100% green energy (confirm)

Recycle:
• Offering waste materials to local community (rather than garbage)
• Recycling of scrap steel
• Full compliance with the local recycling program

Going forward, UniTrak will continue to extend and deepen its Lean initiative. Future areas of focus include the entire product life cycle and supply chain. Buyers can be confident that UniTrak will continue its sustainable business practices, for the betterment of our customers, employees, community, and society as a whole.