Energy Conservation

Under the Daifuku Environmental Vision 2020, the Daifuku Group strives to reduce CO₂ emissions from its business activities to help prevent global warming. The Group marked a 47.6% cut in its total CO₂ emissions in fiscal 2011 compared to fiscal 2005, far exceeding the 16% targeted in the medium-term environmental action plan.

Daifuku launched the consolidated CO₂ emissions management framework across the Group in 2011. By assessing the amount of electricity, gas and fuel used at each site worldwide, we strive to improve the Group's environmental performance.

Daifuku has taken measures to reduce CO₂ emitted from its product transportation. In fiscal 2011, transportation-related CO₂ emissions per unit of net sales were down 22.2% compared to fiscal 2005, surmounting the target of 11%.

Enhanced load efficiency in product shipping

Daifuku strives to make its shipping loads as compact as possible to reduce the environmental impact of transportation. Daifuku arranges loads in trailers according its packaging and has developed loading platforms for products with irregular shapes to protect quality and improve load efficiency.

Multiple stacking improves load efficiency

Sharing transportation resources

In partnership with other suppliers, Daifuku uses precise logistics 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 each supplier sending their own truck. This system allows for central management of shipping information, reduces logistics costs and lowers CO₂ emissions.

One truck picks up and delivers to each supplier in a given region. (Milk run method*)

Our CO₂ reduction efforts range from large-scale operational improvements to individual employees reducing their commute and travel when on company business. Daily data on the use of electricity and heat energy, the major contributors of CO₂ emissions, are constantly monitored for improvement.

A photovoltaic system installed at Hini Arata Kan demo center

In March 2010, Daifuku installed solar panels at the Hini Arata Kan material handling expo center within Shiga Works. In fiscal 2011, the system generated approximately 260,000 kWh of power, which reduced CO₂ emissions by 80 tons.

Solar modules on Hini Arata Kan's roof

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.

*Yasuragi Road
An employee-friendly walkway was built alongside 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 beauty of each season. Yasuragi is a Japanese word meaning comfort and relaxation.

Employee-friendly Yasuragi Road

Walking to save energy

Participating in Challenge 25 Campaign

Daifuku has participated in the national campaign to reduce greenhouse gas emissions since June 2007. All Daifuku facilities in Japan turn off their lights during the lunch break, as well as after hours. In addition, office air conditioning is set at 28 deg C in the summer and 20 deg C in the winter to reduce environmental impact, while still creating a comfortable environment for employees. All divisions have a no jacket and tie rule in summer and encourage employees to wear warm clothes to the office in winter. The Challenge 25 Campaign poster is displayed at all facilities.

National campaign poster

Participating in the lights-out campaign

Daifuku has also participated in the national Lights-Out Campaign, which includes turning unnecessary light fixtures off to help prevent global warming. In 2010, Daifuku turned off outdoor lighting, including advertising displays and signs, from June 20 to July 7 at its major facilities.

Turning off lightings

Reducing electricity consumption while ensuring visitor-friendly lighting

At Daifuku's Hini Arata Kan material handling expo center at Shiga Works, long-lasting, energy-efficient ceramic lights highlight the exhibits. Reflective lampshades increase room brightness and create a pleasant space for visitors while reducing CO₂ emissions.

Mercury lamps were replaced with more efficient ceramic lightings

Cogeneration facilities

Due to its power demand, Shiga Works is a Type 1 Designated Energy Management Factory. Daifuku installed a cogeneration system at Shiga Works to increase energy efficiency. Today, 16% of the total electricity demand is met by this in-house cogeneration system.

The Shiga Works cogeneration facility has been in operation since 1997