Greening the factory floor and reducing the climate impact of the manufacturing sector

Abstract

The manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of the global economy, driving innovation, employment, and national development. Yet it is also a substantial contributor to climate change, primarily due to its high carbon emissions. To mitigate its contribution to climate change, the manufacturing sector needs to adopt a range of strategies for economic decoupling, including enhancing energy efficiency, transitioning to renewable energy, optimising material use and waste management, and embracing circular economy principles. This paper presents a study comprising a systematic literature review, complemented by case studies from companies in sectors including automotive, construction, aerospace, food, and consumer goods. It uniquely integrates cross-sectoral evidence into actionable guidelines for decarbonisation. Drawing from a systematic review of 29 peer-reviewed studies and sector-specific case studies, the study develops key guidelines to foster green growth. While selective, the analysis provides insight into key industrial pathways. One limitation of the paper is the exclusive focus on the manufacturing sector and the small sample of papers selected.