ISMR September 2021 | Page 71

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY

can be extended and translated across other manufacturing industries .
Why is ethical manufacturing important for businesses ?
Ethical production is important for staff , customers and environmental well-being . But it can also have significant benefits for businesses . By utilising sustainable processes and materials , manufacturers are ensuring that their future is secure . For example , some toilet paper companies will plant trees to replace the ones used for their production . This action is circular , as it means that their impact on the environment is limited and that they have future materials to continue their manufacturing .
Also , ethical businesses that provide a positive work environment are likely to improve productivity . Ethical businesses can continue the development of staff and their skills , improving their work . Oxford University found that happy workers are 13 per cent more productive than those who are not . Training staff could also help retention , as 93 per cent of employees said they would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career . Ethical manufacturing businesses do not just have to rely on material sustainability – the ethical impact can extend to their workers as well .
Sustainability and ethical manufacturing are also key to attracting customers . Around 92 per cent of millennials said they were more likely to purchase from an ethical company , displaying a need to know that their corporate mission is genuine and from a wellfounded place . From a business perspective , ethical manufacturing has clear financial benefits . Aligning your production , staff development and customer outreach within a framework of ethical manufacturing can lead to improved quality , higher productivity and increased revenue .
Becoming an ethical business
As discussed , there are multiple ways for a business to be an ethical manufacturer . It doesn ’ t just start and stop with the products you make . Businesses must create inclusive environments that promote sustainable production while benefitting the local community .
This is achieved at many layers within a business . Sustainably sourced materials may include recycled goods or items sourced from another local manufacturer . This reduces waste and limits transport needs , which can have a negative environmental impact .
In the workplace , training , development and a prioritisation of safety can help staff feel happier . Investment in staff is key to creating a positive working culture . This can be achieved through understanding the ambitions of workers and finding ways to help encourage their development through educational courses .
Using ethical workwear suppliers to encourage an inclusive work culture will also contribute to your standing . Suitable workwear clothing can also improve safety during the manufacturing process . Combined , training and positive culture can help to boost productivity and your status as an ethical business .
Finally , you should display your status as an ethical manufacturer proudly . Remind customers that your business is acting with the best intentions and processes . By doing this , your customers will use and promote your brand so that your investment in the environment and community provides positive returns . n
SOURCES www . fashionrevolution . org / waste-is-it-really-in-fashion www . ox . ac . uk / news / 2019-10-24-happy-workers-are-13-more-productive https :// learning . linkedin . com / resources / workplace-learning-report-2018 www . entrepreneur . com / article / 341699
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