Celebrating Achievements
Airedale Springs has received multiple awards recognising its sustainability efforts, including being named Sustainable Business of the Year at the Keighley & Airedale Business Awards, earning the Sustainability Award at the Telegraph & Argus Bradford Means Business Awards, and receiving the Net Zero Contributor of the Year 2024 at the MMMA Gala Awards.
These accolades highlight the company’s contributions to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and innovation within the metal forming industry. They also serve as an example of the opportunities available to others who adopt greener practices in manufacturing.
Sustainability is integral to Airedale Springs’ business strategy, extending beyond emission reductions to encompass an overall commitment to responsible resource management. By adopting renewable energy solutions and prioritising material choices with minimal waste from the outset, Airedale Springs demonstrates that manufacturing can advance environmental goals without compromising on quality or performance.
Pioneering Renewable Energy
Airedale Springs’ manufacturing facility operates under a net-zero carbon status and boasts an EPC rating of -12 A+. On-site solar panels generate over 80% of the energy required for operations, while a 368kW battery storage system captures and retains surplus power. This approach ensures a steady energy supply, maximising efficiency and minimising waste.
The company has completely phased out gas usage, powering electric heating and hot water systems with renewable energy. This step both reduces emissions and mitigates reliance on fossil fuels. By integrating renewable energy solutions into a complex spring manufacturing environment, Airedale Springs illustrates the feasibility and benefits of prioritising sustainability.
Encouraging Cleaner Transport
Airedale Springs also aims to reduce the environmental impact of travel. EV charging points have been installed at its facility, accessible to both employees and visitors. As part of the UK’s broader initiative to promote electric vehicles, these chargers help encourage more eco-friendly modes of transportation.
By fostering greener travel alternatives, the company supports wider sustainability goals and showcases how incremental changes in infrastructure can have a significant positive influence on environmental outcomes.
Smarter Use of Materials
Resource efficiency is a central aspect of Airedale Springs’ manufacturing philosophy. All products, from springs to wire forms, use 100% recyclable metal, allowing materials to be repurposed and significantly minimising waste. Furthermore, the company sources 90% of its cardboard from recycled materials, thereby reducing the need for virgin resources.
Through these measures, Airedale Springs underscores the importance of embedding sustainability into every facet of operations, from material selection to final product delivery.
Driving Industry-Wide Change
Acknowledging that industry-wide impact requires collective effort, Airedale Springs actively shares knowledge and encourages the broader manufacturing sector to adopt greener practices. Emphasising renewable energy adoption and reduced dependence on fossil fuels, the company highlights the transformative influence of solar power and energy storage on operational efficiency.
By integrating recyclable materials, mitigating waste, and promoting cleaner transport options such as EV charging stations, manufacturers can align with evolving customer expectations for environmentally friendly products. These measures also foster resilience, reduce long-term costs, and position businesses as market leaders.
Looking Ahead
Airedale Springs regards sustainability as an ongoing process. By 2026, the company aims to become a net energy exporter, generating more renewable energy than it consumes. This target reflects a dedication to continually raising the bar for sustainable manufacturing practices.
Recognising that every business in the sector has a part to play, Airedale Springs encourages others to consider renewable energy, waste reduction, and cleaner transportation options. Through collective efforts, manufacturing can evolve into an industry that not only prioritises sustainability but thrives because of it.
