Introduction to green manufacturing

Abstract

This chapter has as its objective a basic introduction to the topic to set the stage for the rest of the book. It introduces first the importance of this topic now and then the motivation, basics, and definitions associated with green manufacturing and sustainability. It describes some of the drivers that are causing governments and industry to take steps to green their processes, machines, systems, and enterprises. A discussion about the distinction between green and sustainable is introduced with respect to incremental improvements, greening and achieving overall sustainability. Strategies for achieving green manufacturing are presented. Barriers and obstacles to greening manufacturing are presented along with examples from industrial practice.