Enterprises around the globe are now under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable methods onsite in line with goals to tackle climate change and reduce emissions. Forward-looking businesses are now using more eco-friendly processes and selecting more sustainable materials and approaches where possible.
For firms using mechanical equipment, whether it is stationary or automotive, a continuous supply of lubricants like greases and oils is essential to keep machinery operating effectively. However, some lubrication is safer for the environment than others. In the following sections, we’ll look at three key areas where companies can adopt more sustainable methods regarding the lubricants they require, along with purchasing lubricants, usage and handling waste.
Purchasing your supply of lubricants
Today, there are a wide range of lubrication products specifically designed to have a less negative impact on our environment.
Whether it’s an agricultural operation or in outdoor areas on large sites, any products used outside should always be as eco-friendly as possible. If a spill or leak occurs, oils that are non-biodegradable can cause serious hazards. Such incidents are not simply harmful to the natural world, but also to those employed in your working environment.
If you have stocks of less eco-conscious lubrication, it’s understandable that from an economic point of view, you must use them up before going green, but you can phase out more harmful lubricants over time and replace them slowly with more sustainable choices wherever possible.
Companies seeking more sustainable oils and greases should always consult their dedicated supplier for advice on available products suitable for their needs.
Service life and usage of a lubricant
In terms of lubricant use, sustainability is interchangeable with service life. For this reason, it’s worth considering selecting greases and oils with a long lifespan. While it might seem cost effective to buy cheaper lubricants, in the long-term, selecting a higher quality oil that can last longer will save your company money, and it’s also much kinder to the environment. The longer the oil lasts, the less often you need to change it, reducing your overall consumption and decreasing the size of your firm’s carbon footprint.
Pay close attention to how your oil choice is performing with inspections and conduct routine analyses of oils used. This will make sure that not only that your selected product is operating effectively, but the machines it helps run are as well. From car engines to hydraulic equipment, machinery that is running efficiently will use less energy, cutting down your fuel bills and reducing the harmful emissions produced.
Dealing with waste oil correctly
Finally, while selecting a premium quality oil engineered to endure can reduce your consumption, how you handle any waste oil is important. Some suppliers will take care of waste on your behalf, using environmentally friendly methods, but separating your own waste can also be profitable if you have the facility. You can avoid disposal costs and may even be able to sell on the waste oil to companies keen to repurpose it.
By employing these methods, you can help your company take steps to becoming more sustainable.
