How Robotics is Reducing Waste in UK Manufacturing

An increasing number of UK manufacturers are realising the opportunity to enhance sustainability through automation. The statistics confirm this, with the UK Government’s 2024 sustainability report revealing that 75% of manufacturers have prioritised investment in eco-friendly technologies. Read on to find out how such investment is helping companies to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and achieve their sustainability goals.

Sustainability Challenges

From the introduction of government regulations to the customer preference for eco-friendly products, manufacturers are under growing pressure to meet sustainability targets. Having emphasised the importance of sustainability in their manifesto, the Labour Government is setting priorities and policies with the aim of achieving net zero by 2050. And a NielsenIQ study has revealed that 61% of consumers feel that sustainability is more important than it was two years ago.

Given the potential to boost efficiency and reduce waste, it’s not surprising that manufacturers are allocating more of their budgets to automation and robotics for the achievement of these goals. There’s increasing recognition that rather than taking people’s jobs, such technologies can enhance the UK workforce through the performance of tasks in the dull, dirty, and dangerous category. The environmental benefits are also clear, with the Government’s sustainability report noting that manufacturers using advanced robotics have reduced material waste by an average of 25%.

Automation’s Impact

Drawing on the expertise of the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), the 2050 Vision for Automation and Robotics in UK Manufacturing points to wider adoption over the coming years. It predicts the decentralisation of manufacturing, with the increasing use of automated technologies and use of safety-enhancing collaborative robots. Wider technological integration is expected to make for greater productivity and competitiveness, with supply chains being strengthened, and skilled workers given more rewarding opportunities.

The increasing impact of automation is reflected in the variety of examples featured in Machinery Update. For instance, the November/December 2024 edition highlighted the automation of a repetitive assembly task through the combination of a collaborative robot and an innovative screw-driving solution (page 23). This integration has enhanced the quality of product assembly and enabled the redeployment of assembly operators to higher-skilled tasks such as soldering and connector assembly.

BARA’s Support For Sustainable Practices

As a leading voice for the Robotic and Automation industries, BARA (British Automation and Robot Association) is committed to ensuring the wider realisation of such sustainable benefits. Having established key links with government, industry, financial, and academic institutions, they are ideally positioned to make such a positive difference. This includes offering guidance on best practices and connecting members with cutting-edge technologies.

BARA is supporting this aim through the publication of simple “how-to” guides, highlighting key considerations for manufacturers embarking on this journey. They also offer access to knowledgeable independent consultants and raise standards through the certification of system integrators.

BARA plays a lead role in the organisation of the Automation UK 2025 event, set to be held at Coventry’s CBS Arena from the 7th to the 8th of May. Showcasing the latest innovations, this major event will also provide the opportunity to connect with potential buyers, network with industry experts and increase brand awareness.

Discover the Potential

Explore the resources on the Automate UK website or get in touch with BARA directly for tailored advice on how to make the most of sustainable automation solutions. Because together we’ll be more powerful than ever.