TO INVESTIGATE GREEN PRACTICES AND RECOMMEND FRAMEWORK FOR IMPLEMENTATION IN ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING FIRMS TO ACHIEVE GREEN SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

This research is aimed to highlight green practices in the electronics industry. The study is based on the theoretical perspectives of researchers whereby pollution in manufacturing represents waste and a loss of productivity. The developed countries like U.S.A, Japan and European Union are switching from conventional practices and have adopted green practices in manufacturing which can result in significant savings in manufacturing and minimizes production cost. This ultimately optimizes energy usage and improves profitability. With economic development and technological advancement, the demand for energy resources is ever increasing which will eventually lead to depletion of energy resources. This situation warrants energy conservation and sustainable development. The study has been restricted in scope to Electronics Products manufacturing industry in Pakistan. Sixteen green practices as adoptable to environment in Pakistan were shortlisted so that maximum information could be gathered about finding linkage of specific green manufacturing practices with specific competitive outcomes. A total 13 organizations were included in the survey and only 8 responded, therefore overall response rate comes to 61% which can be termed as quite favorable. The status of current manufacturing practices has been identified. Implications for Electronics products manufacturing industry by adopting green manufacturing practices have been discussed. The responses have been analyzed on the basis of manufacturing costs, quality of product, company image, attracting new customers and promotion of innovative ideas in the Electronics manufacturing industry. The results show that generally, Electronic Products manufacturing firms are pursuing little or no green sustainable practices. Nevertheless, the main focus is energy conservation with more emphasis in the private sector. Overall, 81% believe green practices will lead to reduction in manufacturing cost. Only 36% think it will improve quality of the manufacturing product. 49% foresee improvement in company image and increase in customer base, whereas 44% are of the opinion that it will promote innovative ideas in manufacturing. Although electronics industry in Pakistan is not very competitive as far as outcomes are concerned, nevertheless, the study does provide an overview with respect to which green manufacturing practices are expected to be adopted more by the electronics industry in the near future due to stringent environmental laws. The public/private v organizations, regulatory bodies, financing institutions and government are required to control the planning, management, financial and technical aspects to encourage adoption and implementation of adoptable green practices in Electronics manufacturing industries of Pakistan. Sustainable development is going to play a very significant role in overall national economy of Pakistan. The recommendations given will hopefully contribute to highlight the importance of green practices for the developing world and provide some direction to follow towards achieving green sustainability.