Why sustainable practices matter

Sustainable practices are more than just buzzwords at DuraTech Industries. As a manufacturer that relies on a wide variety of materials, equipment, and energy systems, we recognize the importance of operating responsibly. Our goal is to meet the needs of our customers, team members, and stakeholders without compromising future generations.

At DuraTech, we define sustainability across three focus areas:

1. Sustainable manufacturing
2. Eco-friendly workplace practices
3. Empowered and informed team members

Sustainable manufacturing practices

Efficiency is central to our manufacturing process. We invest in equipment that minimizes waste, reduces maintenance downtime, and increases output.

Upgrading equipment

Recently, we installed a G-WASH 106 to replace our older Bochonow developer. This upgrade has reduced maintenance downtime thanks to fewer moving parts and programmable features that better align with our workflows.

Pre-press improvements

In our pre-press department, we now use automated water-wash systems to clean screens. This streamlines operations and reduces manual labor. Our screen printing department has also shifted to using solid-based, UV-cured inks, which release lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to solvent-based inks.

Facilities and maintenance

When purchasing HVAC systems, we focus on energy efficiency. For example, our 70-ton Aaon unit, installed in late 2023, has an Integrated Energy Efficiency Ratio (IEER) of 16.1. This rating is significantly higher than the recommended 11.4 for units over 60 tons. The purchase qualified for over $6,000 in energy rebates from Focus on Energy and Xcel Energy. These new systems use less energy and operate more reliably, thanks to improvements such as variable frequency drives that adjust motor speed based on load demand.

Shipping and material reuse

Recycling and reusing materials are standard practices at DuraTech. Our shipping department uses 100 percent biodegradable packing materials. Pallets and cardboard are reused extensively, with about 95 percent of shipping cardboard being repurposed. According to our Logistics Manager, Gary, “We haven’t purchased pallets in years.”

Scrap materials from die-cutting and printing are saved when possible and repurposed in creative ways. For example, Gary crafts notepads from reused sheets of paper, reducing both waste and office supply costs.

Sustainable supplier partnerships

We work with suppliers who share our environmental values. We prioritize vendors with a track record of providing durable materials that help reduce waste and prevent unnecessary energy use during production.

Creating an eco-friendly workplace

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond production. We have made several upgrades to reduce our facility’s environmental footprint:

• Facility-wide LED lighting and motion-sensor systems in low-traffic areas
• Upgraded HVAC systems for reduced energy consumption
• Early Friday production shutdowns to minimize weekend energy use
• Water bottle filling stations and lunchroom recycling bins to reduce plastic waste

As a result of these improvements, we used less energy in 2024 than in 2023, even with increased production.

Empowering our team members

Ergonomics and health

We believe sustainable practices begin with our people. Our production areas are equipped with ergonomic workstations, adjustable desks, anti-fatigue mats, and ergonomic tools to reduce physical strain. Through a partnership with our insurance provider, we participate in the Ergo Workstation Program. By submitting videos of work tasks, we receive professional evaluations and recommendations for further ergonomic improvements.

Training and participation

Team members receive training on how to reduce waste and improve material handling. They are also encouraged to share suggestions for process improvements that support our sustainability goals. This approach ensures that our workforce is informed, engaged, and actively contributing to our mission.

The road ahead

Sustainability is not a destination. It is a continuous journey. At DuraTech Industries, we remain committed to building a future where innovation and responsibility work together. By investing in smarter equipment, reducing waste, and empowering our people, we continue to strengthen our role as a forward-thinking and sustainable manufacturer.