A program spearheading “green” manufacturing in the state is proving so far to be a success. Fifty-four companies are participating in a Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership pilot program, anticipated to generate five-year cost savings of $54 million, with a $1.75 million dollar initial investment.
WMEP’s Lee Swindall says companies are given flexibility – in the Wisconsin Profitable Sustainability Initiative (PSI) – as to what type of project to implement. Some chose green products, energy management and hazmat reduction.
Beginning in April 2010, the goal of the PSI is to develop sustainable systems in a manner that is both quick and profitable, says Swindall.
“The results so far have exceeded expectations. The ultimate object is to make Wisconsin the most sustainable manufacturing state in the nation.”
WMEP claims this program – which caters to small-to-midsized companies – is the first of its kind in the nation.
