The ever-growing demand for electronic devices is heightening environmental concerns, underscoring the urgency for sustainable solutions. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of clean technology (cleantech) stand at the forefront of innovation, offering green appliances such as heat pumps, electrolysers, wind turbines, and solar panels as well as more eco-friendly consumer products. However, green design is only one aspect of cleantech products, which also require a sustainable production approach. Read this article to learn more about the role and responsibilities of electronics manufacturing in cleantech.
Sustainable production
To uphold clean technology standards, both OEMs and electronics manufacturing service (EMS) providers meticulously select components for production, opting for non-toxic materials, preferably recycled or recyclable. Utilising energy from sustainable resources is also critical for clean technology.
Moreover, experienced EMS providers, such as Poland-based Assel, have embraced modern manufacturing processes coupled with efficient enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, enabling significant waste reduction.
The principles of the circular economy, including take-back programs for end-of-life devices and designing products for easier disassembly and recycling, further minimise production waste and diminish the necessity for virgin resources.
Supply chain transparency
For contract manufacturers engaged in the production of cleantech devices, supply chain management becomes an even more challenging task. They must ensure not only the timely sourcing of required materials and electronic components but also make efforts to find sustainable materials that meet the manufacturing standards of OEMs. Additionally, they take extra steps to ensure the use of materials manufactured with sustainable and fair labour practices.
Supply chain transparency and traceability are also helpful in tracking faulty components and improving product quality.
Cleantech – the future of electronics manufacturing
While clean technology has yet to gain popularity in many regions, it has already become a trend in others, shaping the manufacturing industry. Governments around the world are increasingly enforcing policies on e-waste management, energy efficiency, and restrictions on hazardous substances, making alignment with ecologically friendly manufacturing principles obligatory. Meanwhile, consumers are gradually becoming more aware of the impact inflicted by the devices they use, and sustainable products are gaining a competitive edge on the market.
Collaborative innovation in cleantech
Despite the urgent need for widespread adoption of clean technology in electronics manufacturing, the transition is hindered by many factors including cost constraints and technological limitations. OEMs devoted to delivering clean technology can find great support in EMS providers like Assel, who leverage sustainable practices and are open to further innovation. For more information on electronics manufacturing services for clean tech, visit https://asselems.com/en/energy-cleantech
