Was Sustainable Manufacturing a thing in the Industrial Age?
Sustainable manufacturing as we understand it today was not a concept that was widely practiced or discussed during the Industrial Age. During this time period, the focus was primarily on increasing production efficiency and maximizing profits, often at the expense of environmental and social considerations. The Industrial Age was marked by rapid industrialization, mass production, and significant environmental degradation.
However, there were some early efforts towards sustainability in manufacturing during the Industrial Age, such as the use of water and steam power as alternative energy sources, as well as waste reduction and recycling practices in some industries. These efforts were not widespread or systematic, and the overall impact of manufacturing during this time period was largely unsustainable.
It wasn't until much later, in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, that the concept of sustainable manufacturing began to gain traction as a response to growing environmental concerns and the recognition of the need for more responsible and ethical business practices. Today, sustainable manufacturing focuses on minimizing environmental impact, conserving resources, reducing waste, and promoting social responsibility throughout the entire production process.