PrintOverview:
In this lesson, we explored energy use in the industrial sector and the general trends overtime in its improved energy efficiency and lower GHG emissions. However, there is still ample opportunity for improvements in multiple types of manufacturing processes across all industrial sectors. Considering how dependent the US economy is on spending on consumer products, improving the sustainability of high demand/widely used goods can result in big wins for energy and the environment. There are also many incentives at the federal and state levels for improved industrial energy efficiency. Improving the energy use profile of manufacturing while also utilizing new materials in the manufacturing process itself, can yield multiple co-benefits for society at large. To pull these concepts together, we’re going to engage in a creative activity.
Purpose of this Essay activity:
To successfully complete this assignment, you will write an essay which reflects the ideas and concepts presented in this lesson, specifically answering the questions provided below.
Successfully completing this assignment:
You will need to pick one manufactured item from your home (piece of furniture, an electronic device, etc.) and research the typical manufacturing process for that item and how facilities that produce that item (or its component parts) typically use energy.
In your submission of 325 (plus or minus 10%) word or less, please answer the following questions:
- Describe in general the typical method for manufacturing or assembling the product you chose
- How is energy generally used in the facilities that manufacturer and/or assemble the product you chose?
- How might you improve the energy efficiency of those facilities?
- Are there ways to swap out key material inputs for new materials that would improve the sustainability of the product and its end use?
- How might you incentivize these energy and material improvements?
Hint: the US Department of Energy, EPA and EnergyStar all have good resources to understand basic manufacturing processes, related energy use as well as incentives and best practices.