Practices for Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing from the Perspective of Sustainability: a Framework and Process

Objective: The objective of this study is proposing a framework for defining relevant and meaningful practices for energy efficiency and environmental performance in manufacturing environments, containing energy efficiency practices for each pillar of sustainability. Theoretical Framework: A detailed analysis of the literature identified the consistent models used in energy efficiency practices to enhance environmental performance in manufacturing industries. Method: The research was conducted in three stages: literature review to identify energy efficiency models in manufacturing, content analysis of the models found, and development of a theoretical framework for energy efficiency with a focus on sustainability. Results and Discussion: Was proposed a framework that guides companies in the implementation of energy efficiency by defining pathways for proposing energy efficiency policies, evaluation methods, sustainable energy efficiency practices, and analysis of results through indicators. Research Implications: This work contributes to the development of research on decisions regarding energy efficiency practices in manufacturing environments by integrating the dimensions of sustainability in order to facilitate implementation and enable manufacturing industries to achieve higher levels of sustainability. Originality/Value: The article proposes a systematic framework with energy efficiency practices for environmental performance in manufacturing industries, derived from the literature review.