Activities
Energy use is related to the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2). Such emissions are reported to affect the environment in the form of global warming and other problems.
CO2 Emissions and Reduction Measures
The Daifuku Group uses finite fossil fuel resources and generates greenhouse gases such as CO2 in the course of its operational activities, which include product development, manufacture and sales. Acutely aware of the real burden this places on the environment at each stage, we make conscious daily efforts toward achieving our own reduction targets and those set for Japan in the Kyoto Protocol. In fiscal 2008, the Company was able to reduce emissions 19.5% compared with fiscal 2006 in terms of net sales per unit.
Environmental Impact of Transportation
Daifuku has tackled the reduction in CO2 emissions by grouping its logistics operations at the Shiga Works; centralizing the management of shipment information; improving transportation methods; and enhancing efficiency by, for example, reducing the space needed to store freight by reviewing and redesigning products to make them smaller.
Daifuku has reduced CO2 emissions as a unit of sales by 24.4%, using fiscal 2006 as the base year.
Sharing Transportation Resources
- One truck makes the rounds to each supplier in a region for pickups and deliveries. (Milk run method*)
In partnership with suppliers, Daifuku uses precise delivery management to collect and deliver parts and materials. Daifuku consolidates and streamlines pickup and delivery for multiple suppliers by having one truck make rounds rather than having each supply send their own truck. Shipping information is centrally managed. This system reduces logistics costs and lowers CO2 emissions.
Modal Shift**
Our customers have reduced CO2 emission by using ship and rail transportation. In fiscal year 2008, cargo transportation via railroad doubled from the previous fiscal year. Daifuku also uses transportation modes with lower impact on the environment, while balancing delivery schedules, cargo volume and costs.
Glossary
*Milk run method: One truck makes the rounds to each supplier and picks up cargo that had previously been delivered by separate trucks from each. This method improves load efficiency reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
**Modal shift: Choosing modes of transportation with lower environmental impact, such as railroads and ships, to transport cargo. By switching from trucks to ships and trains, it is possible to transport cargo with fewer CO2 emissions and less impact on the environment. Transportation efficiency is also improved because larger volumes are moved at one time.
Energy Conservation Efforts
Our CO2 reduction efforts range from operational improvements to efforts made in our daily lives, including commuting and traveling when on company business. Daily data on the use of electricity and heat energy, the major contributors of CO2 emissions, are monitored and measures implemented.
“Idling Stop” Initiative
- Warning sign at the ShigaWorks
The term “idling stop” refers to turning off the engines of vehicles used for commuting and trucks used for shipping products when they are not moving.
Cogeneration Facility Introduced
- The Shiga Works cogeneration facility has been in operation since 1997
The Shiga Works has the scale of power demand of a Type 1 Designated Energy Management Factory and has engaged in the effective utilization of energy by having installed a cogeneration system. Today, 15% of the total electricity demand at the Shiga Works is met by this in-house cogeneration system.
Participation in Team Minus 6%
- Team Minus 6% poster
Daifuku has been participating in the national Team Minus 6% project to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions since June 2007.
All Daifuku business sites in Japan, including its Osaka Headquarters and Tokyo Head Office, thoroughly ensure that lights are switched off during the lunch break and after office hours. In addition, setting the office air-conditioning temperature at 28 deg C in summer and 20 deg C in winter shows consideration for the environment and creates a comfortable working environment.
All internal divisions display the Team Minus 6% poster, have a no jacket and tie rule in summer and encourage the wearing of warmer clothes in the office in winter.
Reducing Electricity Consumption While Ensuring Visitor-Friendly Lighting
At Daifuku's Hini Arata Kan material handling expo center in the Shiga Works, long-lasting, energy-efficient ceramic lights highlight the exhibits. Reflective lamp shades increase room brightness and create a pleasant space for visitors while reducing CO2 emissions.
Using Solar Power to Preserve the Environment
The lights along Shiga Works' Yasuragi Road* are powered by solar energy. The road is lit at night by solar energy accumulated and stored during the day. Daifuku continues to find new ways to use clean energy.
*Yasuragi Road
An employee-friendly walkway improves the utility of the retention pond at Shiga Works. To make the walkway inviting to employees, we lined the 720m road with cherry trees, flowering plants and maple trees, to best capture the beauties of each season. Yasuragi is a Japanese word meaning comfort and relaxation.
