EMC's energy partner ECNG provided Marg Harrison to share the podium with EMC's Scott McNeil-Smith to discuss current trends in the energy market and implications for manufacturers to effectively "stick-handle" the current market in order to achieve as much savings as possible. Regardless of where markets move, the cost of energy in manufacturing is a huge burden. The main message is to be well informed, and make use of the free informal energy assessment strategy available to EMC members. Sometimes the strategy points toward hedging the market, other times hedging does not make sense. Every manufacturing business's scenario is unique, and so should be their energy management strategy.

After a short break, Chad Metcalf of Value Stream Solutions provided a perspective on the importance of uising the lean focus and tools  on your sustainability activities. Case studies were shared, and examples of how 5S and Total Productive Maintenance are translated and applied to "Green" initiatives.

For more information on Chad's presentation and its content, please contact Todd Oliver, Director of Program Delivery at EMC: toliver@emccanada.org

A brainstorming discussion with manufacturers about their needs provided these industry driven themes for the North Bay region going forward:

Mike Baker, EMC