Metal fabricators are now more than ever recognizing the importance of eco-friendly practices. Given the significant energy and raw materials used in operations, companies that adopt sustainability practices can gain a competitive edge in the marketplace by minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. Additionally, a commitment to sustainable practices can unlock opportunities and build trust with customers as there is a growing preference for doing business with environmentally responsible companies.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sustainability in manufacturing and metal fabrication is defined as the “creation of products through economically-sound processes that minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources. It also enhances employee, community, and product safety.”

BSMW is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint through various sustainable practices:

Waste Reduction & Packaging Optimization

BSMW’s employees play a vital role in the company’s sustainability efforts, participating in  comprehensive recycling programs. The primary focus of these efforts is metal waste recycling. All scrap metal is carefully separated and sold for reuse. In 2022 alone, BSMW recycled an impressive 615,843.2 pounds of carbon steel, 145,895 pounds of stainless steel, and 26,620 pounds of aluminum, for a total of 788,358.2 pounds of recycled metal! Additionally, the majority of the company’s palletizing uses wood, which is reusable. BSMW also works to reduce its use of non-biodegradable packing materials, such as expanded foam, whenever possible.

To reduce plastic waste generated at its facility, BSMW installed four bottle filling stations. The dispensers feature a counter that keeps track how many bottles each station has saved. The company has kept more than 100K bottles out of landfills! Just one employee switching to a reusable water bottle has the potential to save an average of 156 plastic bottles annually.

Why does BSMW prioritize recycling?

• Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, which lessens the company’s carbon footprint.
• Recycling conserves limited natural resources by reusing materials.
• Recycling helps cut costs by promoting the use of domestically sourced materials.

Integration of Eco-Friendly Products

To improve energy efficiency, BSMW upgraded its conventional incandescent bulbs with LEDs throughout its facility.

While incandescent bulbs have a relatively short lifespan, typically lasting 700 to 1,000 hours, high-quality LEDs have a lifespan of more than 100,000 hours of use. They also use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. The change from incandescent to LED lights is particularly beneficial in the context of a metal fabrication facility, where energy consumption can be substantial.

Beyond energy savings, the LEDs also improve visibility in BSMW’s facility. This is critical for work that requires precision, contributing to improved productivity and quality control.

Technology Investments to Limit VOC Emissions

A year and a half ago, BSMW invested in a powder coating batch system. This technology enables the company to finish products onsite, which gives BSMW better control over cost, quality, and lead-time. The powder coating batch system also significantly reduces the amount of wet painting done at BSMW, which greatly reduces the company’s emissions of volatile organic compounds. Volatile organic compounds are a group of chemicals that can easily evaporate into the air at room temperature and have adverse effects on air quality. They are a major component of smog.

Regular Stormwater & Wastewater Testing and Inspection

Maintaining the integrity of Northeast Wisconsin’s water resources is a top priority for BSMW.

The company adheres to both EPA and federal government guidelines for stormwater management as it is located on tribal land. BSMW’s Stormwater Prevention Plan is federally approved, and the company conducts quarterly stormwater tests. Samples are collected from three locations where stormwater leaves the property and tested by PACE Analytical. All three discharge points also require documented quarterly visual assessments.

Chemical Compliance & Management

BSMW uses EPA-compliant paints, coatings, and chemicals in its metal fabrication processes. The company’s powder coating booth is equipped with extensive filtration and air handling systems to ensure all coatings and chemicals are disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner. A monitoring system, using colored metal signs in BSMW’s parking lot, provides a visual check on the filtration’s performance. Any discoloration on the signs is an immediate indication that a discharge may be escaping from the filtration system.

These diligent practices demonstrate BSMW’s dedication to environmental protection and to the well-being of its employees and the surrounding community.

Badger Sheet Metal Works’ Impact Beyond Metal Fabrication

BSMW’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates the company’s commitment to responsible business practices and environmental stewardship. Through initiatives like VOC emission reduction, comprehensive recycling programs, and energy efficient practices, BSMW is doing more than just shaping metal. This forward-thinking approach is shaping a path toward a more sustainable future, not just for the company, but also for the community it serves and the industry at large. In every metal piece shaped and every sustainable action taken, BSMW aims to contribute to a healthier planet, in the hope its impact lasts far beyond the products it creates.

About Badger Sheet Metal Works

Badger Sheet Metal Works is a custom and OEM metal fabrication partner for various industries, including food and dairy, mining, petroleum, material handling, and architecture. The company employs approximately 100 people in a custom-designed plant in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The facility includes a 70 by 320-foot main assembly bay with four crane rails featuring a total lifting capacity of 30 tons and a 22-foot under-hook height.

For more information about Badger Sheet Metal Works’ custom fabrication capabilities, call Kenny Coe, director of sales, at (920) 435-8881, or visit bsmw.com.