Environmental responsibility is something of a buzzword at present, and rightly so, as the extent to which our activity has impacted upon the earth has only relatively recently come to light.
With individuals looking to reduce their carbon footprint and government initiatives established to attempt to reduce motor vehicle usage, it has affected all aspects of life.
Businesses, particularly those involved with the manufacturing sector have by no means escaped this concerted push to lower emissions and minimise energy consumption.
In order to meet specific regulations relating to emissions, many companies have had to change their practices and invest in new technology.
The laws surrounding energy efficiency however are not as strict and given the cost of replacing all older equipment with new, more efficient machinery, many companies opt to stick with what they have and continue to pay higher fuel bills: as this is cheaper in the short-term than a complete equipment upgrade.
Although this is the case in a sizable percentage of manufacturing industries, some businesses are able to drastically reduce their energy consumption with the implementation of simple and eminently affordable solutions.
A prime example of a way to improve energy efficiency without substantial capital outlay can be found when considering ways to sustain temperature in temperature controlled areas.
This requirement is widespread in not only the manufacturing industry but also warehousing of perishable goods and many other industries.
One way to reduce energy bills is to invest in cutting edge ventilation and heating systems, which could realistically result in a hefty reduction in electricity consumption: but unfortunately would cost a great deal in the outset.
A more affordable approach is the implementation of PVC strip curtains.
Used as an alternative to conventional doors and as barriers between different areas, they allow ease of thoroughfare whilst preventing heat loss or temperature increases where appropriate: without using any power.
As well as insulating more effectively than alternative solutions, PVC strip curtains reduce temperature fluctuations: it is these fluctuations that cause peaks in power usage, as the cooling or heating equipment must initiate an intensive burst in order to get the temperature back within the required parameters following a drastic change in temperature: as would result from leaving a door open or similar.
The use of PVC strip curtains is simply a good example of the ways that companies can incorporate affordable low-tech solutions when trying to improve energy efficiency without denting their capital.
Very often it is intelligent alterations rather than blind technological overhauls which are most effective for cutting costs and preserving the environment.