In the relentless pursuit of sustainability, the construction and manufacturing sectors are under immense pressure to reduce their carbon footprint. A recent study led by Marko Orošnjak, a researcher at the University of Luxembourg and the University of Novi Sad, sheds light on a critical aspect of this challenge: the adoption of Sustainable Maintenance (SM) practices. The research, published in ‘Cleaner Production Letters’ (translated from English), delves into the complexities of integrating SM within the framework of Industry 4.0, offering a roadmap for cleaner production and enhanced operational efficiency.
The global industrial sector, responsible for a staggering 26% of CO2 emissions, with manufacturing and construction contributing about 13%, is a significant contributor to climate change. Regulatory frameworks like the GreenDeal and RePowerEU are pushing industries to align their economic productivity with sustainable business models. Orošnjak’s study highlights the pivotal role of maintenance activities in reducing energy consumption and enhancing sustainability. “The impact of maintenance activities in reducing energy consumption can be considered one of the main determinants for enhancing the sustainability of manufacturing processes,” Orošnjak states, underscoring the urgency of adopting SM practices.
The research employs an umbrella review method to examine contemporary research on SM, focusing not just on barriers and enablers but also on the intricate network of factors influencing SM adoption. One of the standout findings is the dual role of digitalization as both a barrier and an enabler. To explore this further, Orošnjak and his team developed a questionnaire-based survey instrument, analyzing the data using Bayesian statistics and Multiple Correspondence Analysis. The results reveal a strong correlation between digitalization and maintenance sustainability aspects, suggesting that leveraging technology can significantly enhance SM practices.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, the adoption of SM practices can lead to substantial reductions in energy consumption, lowering operational costs and environmental impact. As Orošnjak notes, “Integrating SM practices within the context of Industry 4.0 offers a strategic move in achieving cleaner production and availability of manufacturing processes.” This integration can drive innovation, improve efficiency, and foster a more sustainable industrial landscape.
The study’s findings also underscore the importance of a holistic approach to SM adoption. By understanding the network of factors influencing SM, industries can develop more effective strategies to overcome barriers and leverage enablers. This could pave the way for future developments in the field, encouraging more research and practical applications of SM practices.
As industries continue to grapple with the challenges of sustainability, Orošnjak’s research provides a valuable framework for navigating the complexities of SM adoption. By highlighting the role of digitalization and the need for a comprehensive approach, the study offers a roadmap for cleaner production and a more sustainable future. The findings, published in ‘Cleaner Production Letters’, serve as a call to action for industries to embrace SM practices and drive meaningful change.