Module 3: Essentials of Cleaner Production

Introduction to the Module

This module of study is one of three modules, which together form the full course: manu1381 Industrial Systems & Environment.

The key purpose of this module is to introduce you to the history, philosophy and practice of Cleaner Production and related Eco-efficiency approaches while rationalising the situation that humanity is in and what it needs to do to achieve sustainability. These aims are specifically addressed in the context of a systems approach to defining and solving problems, particularly in relation to the management of engineering and technologically driven organisations from manufacturing to government.

The basic principles and concepts of sustainability are introduced and Cleaner Production is introduced as a component of the method of achieving resource efficiency that is required for sustainability. Cleaner Production methodologies and associated technologies are established in the context of industrial, commercial and community issues.

The teaching strategies used in the module are designed to encourage you to explore existing thinking on resource efficiency with emphasis on a systems approach to solving sustainability problems with the use of Cleaner Production approaches and to consider the strategic technological and Corporate Environmental Policy related aspects of such applications.

The module makes particular emphasis on Cleaner Production programs as presenting major challenges to technologists, corporate strategists and environmentalists alike, to work together to find viable solutions to pollutant problems and establish workable models for sustainable development.

Increasing levels of advanced technology in industry, government and commerce, coupled with growing expectations of industry in terms of meeting both implied and prescribed environmental standards, are generating an increasing demand for engineering leaders with high levels of knowledge, technical skill and competence in the deployment of advanced technology and technology based systems in environmentally responsible ways.

This module challenges students to demonstrate that they can meet the increasing demands by industry, government and the wider community for knowledgeable, creative and responsible leadership in this challenging area of achieving ecologically sustainable industrial development.

Module 3. is structured as having four core Topics of study as follows. It is recommended that you work through them. Please refer to the list of references for a selection of recommended readings for each topic.

The topics covered are:

8.1 Introduction to sustainability

8.2 Environmental issues

8.3 Eco-Footprint

8.4 Business – government – community and the environment

9.1 The Leaner-Cleaner-Greener Production solution

9.2 The concept of waste and resource efficiency

9.3 The cost of waste

9.4 Business development opportunities

10.1 Implementing a Cleaner Production system

10.2 Waste assessment

10.3 Energy Losses

10.4 Cleaner and Leaner

11.1 Environmental Management Systems

11.2 Continuous improvement

11.3 Conclusions on sustainable development