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“Sustainability is the key to our survival on this planet and will also determine success on all levels” Shari Arison 2009, Green Vision, Business Week.
We live in a time where sustainability cannot be separated from how we do business. We not only have to “think” green, but it has become essential to implement sustainable green practices in our daily operations. Sustainable operations are directly linked to the logistics and supply chain, with the goal to reduce the carbon footprint while generating profit.
At CFAO Equipment, we are cognisant of the role a warehouse plays in the continual growth of carbon dioxide (co2) emissions which are not only harmful to humans, but excessive co2 along with other air pollutants and greenhouse gases leads to global warming impacting the earth’s climates by causing changes in weather patterns. The manufacturing and warehousing industries emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide.
In order to reduce the carbon footprint of the manufacturing and warehouse industry, it is essential to have a strategy that limits C02 emission in all activities including the use of your material handling and industrial equipment such as the type of warehouse forklifts you invest in. What are the key things to consider surrounding material handling equipment?
A good approach to a healthier environment includes the use of counterbalance forklift trucks supplied by electricity. These forklifts do not directly generate carbon dioxide. Consequently, they contribute to improved internal air quality. Of course, not all activities are suitable for electric forklifts, especially where high-level power is required. The use of diesel or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) forklifts does generate high emissions of CO2 when compared to the electric forklift.
While electric forklifts emit no CO2, there are still further options in terms of better choices for the environment namely, Lead Acid Forklift Batteries (LAB) or Lithium-Ion Forklift Batteries (LIB). Lead Acid Batteries function on harsh chemicals inside the battery, including lead. The LIB Battery also contains toxic chemicals, but these are chemicals found naturally in the environment. Aside from what is inside, the batteries have different impacts on operations. LIB lasts longer, is energy-saving (which is better for the environment) and is of a more stable nature. Refilling of liquids for LAB brings about risks of chemical spills, and the recharge time is a lot longer than LIB. While both are recyclable, the risk of environmental impact is much lower with LIB-driven electric forklifts.
Take a look at our Industrial Power Division which supplies a range of batteries for forklifts.
As mentioned, electric forklifts are not always fit-for-purpose. If the electric forklift is not an option, and a warehouse is already in possession of internal combustion driven forklifts, the alternative is to look at the optimal functioning of engines and controlled emission of CO2. This decreases the impact on the environment and is safer for staff.
To reduce the CO2 levels, the engine of your forklift must be well maintained and tuned properly. This not only limits the CO2 emission but also ensures your forklift is running at its optimal speed and strength – and prevents downtime.
Unsure about which forklift you should invest in? Read our blog which compares whether the electric, diesel or a propane forklift will be best for your operational needs.
CFAO Equipment SA offers our clients complete material handling and industrial equipment solution by providing best-in-class equipment from well-known and respected brands such as Toyota Forklifts, CT Power, Konecranes and more.
Ask us about our electric forklifts for sale or rent. We offer forklift driver training, maintenance, service and parts to improve your operations and the consequent impact on the environment. We are also here to help with your maintenance needs, to ensure your fuel-driven forklift runs optimally for lower carbon emissions.
You can also view our used forklifts for sale here.
