According to Wikipedia; efficient energy use, sometimes simply called energy efficiency, is using less energy to provide the same level of energy service.

Energy conservation has become a way of life for many people. In our work lives we are well aware of the need to look for energy efficient equipment. Even mundane and simple things such as shutting off lights or turning down the thermostat in rooms not in use can make a difference. It’s worthwhile and often critical to be vigilant in finding and creating ways to conserve energy.

In that same vein, if you are an owner or manager of a cleanroom facility, it’s important to put an energy efficient program into practice. Implementing such a program has proven to reduce operating costs; using less energy to deliver the same products or services, without increasing the production time, can only lead to increased profits.

Peter Grier wrote an article for Controlled Environments entitled “ISO 14000: Putting the Standards to Work.” In that article he listed some ways that cleanrooms could become more energy efficient. Since then, the ISO 14000 standards have grown to be “The ISO 14000 Family of International Standards on Environmental Management.” According to the International Standards Organization’s website; the ISO 14000 family of standards for environmental management was launched to provide a practical toolbox to assist in the implementation of actions supportive to sustainable development. ISO 14001 is the world’s most recognized framework for environmental management systems (EMS) that helps organizations to manage the impact of their activities on the environment and to demonstrate sound environmental management. There is a myriad of information on this website to guide you to an energy efficient cleanroom.

In this issue, Barbara and Ed Kanegsberg, in their column “Cleanrooms and Energy,” suggest some ways in which you can reduce the carbon footprint of your cleanroom. Ideas such as planning or redesigning the cleanroom, installing the correct HVAC controls, having efficient air flow, utilizing minienvironments within your cleanroom, and if a process doesn’t need to be performed in a cleanroom they recommend you keep it out!

Author Aaron Fowles explains simple steps that any business can take to reduce their overall impact on the environment. In his article, “Actionable Steps to Building a Sustainable Business,” he states that a Consumer Reports survey on climate change found 79% of consumers said they would rather buy from companies that are making an effort to reduce their environmental impact. So not only will you save money by conserving energy, but bragging about it can potentially earn money as well.

Cleanrooms are inherently energy-and resource-intensive facilities; it makes sense that implementing an Environmental Management System will reduce your costs, thereby improving your profitability.