Towards Sustainable Manufacturing: Why Surface Finishing Also Needs to Go Green

The world is witnessing a rapid evolution in material science, driven by the inevitable shift of global industries toward sustainability. As production scales up, the planet faces growing challenges climate change, industrial emissions, and corporate responsibility all demanding long-term stability.

This article explores why surface finishing, especially polishing, must also be “green,” and how adopting eco-friendly polishing solutions can play a key role in sustainable manufacturing.

At the same time, AMS introduces a range of polishing solutions that meet today's environmental standards, supplied from Hyperion, a global brand recognized for its strong sustainability commitments. We believe that green manufacturing success requires not only individual effort but also collaboration with like-minded partners. Let's explore the insights below.

1. The Global Rise of the Green Manufacturing Movement

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is now the key framework for measuring corporate sustainability and responsibility.

• E - Environmental: reducing emissions, efficient energy use, recycling, and cleaner production.

• S - Social: labor welfare, safety, equality, and community well-being.

• G - Governance: transparency, ethics, and compliance.

According to PwC, ESG-related assets under management (AuM) are projected to grow from USD 18.4 trillion in 2021 to USD 33.9 trillion in 2026, representing 21.5% of total global AuM and a 12.9% CAGR. ESG has become the new core of global business, with many corporations requiring ESG compliance throughout their supply chains.

To meet ESG goals especially the Environmental pillar manufacturers are transforming into green factories. Every stage, from machining to mold polishing, must now optimize for energy efficiency, emission reduction, and equipment longevity.

Innovations such as eco-friendly polishing fluids and automated robot polishing systems not only boost productivity but also accelerate progress toward carbon neutrality.

In Vietnam, the ESG transition is driven by international pressure, as clients from the EU and U.S. now include ESG compliance in supply contracts. For example, the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) reported that in 2023, companies with ESG certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) achieved a 15% export growth, while the industry overall declined by 10%.

Sustainable production is no longer just an environmental duty, it's a competitive advantage. Vietnamese manufacturers are increasingly seeking materials and equipment from suppliers with verified sustainability commitments. This shift also challenges local distributors to be more agile in providing environmentally responsible solutions that align with global standards.

2. Why Surface Finishing Processes Must Evolve

Surface finishing is among the most resource-intensive stages in production. Processes such as grinding, polishing, and surface coating consume significant quantities of fluids, abrasives, and energy.

Traditional polishing compounds often contain harsh chemicals harmful to both the environment and operator health. Manufacturers are now searching for eco-friendly alternatives that deliver the same or better performance without compromising sustainability.

Current Challenges in Conventional Finishing:

• High energy consumption and metallic dust generation

• Use of non-biodegradable, chemical-based fluids

• Fast tool wear leading to hazardous waste

• Rising waste treatment costs and stricter environmental regulations

The solution lies in high-performance, low-wear, and sustainable materials that minimize waste while maximizing efficiency.

“Sustainable efficiency” means not only producing less pollution but also reducing material use, cutting production costs, and extending tool life.

According to Data Intelo, the global diamond polishing compound market was valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 2.4 billion by 2032 (CAGR ~8.1%). This growth reflects the industry's move toward diamond-based polishing for superior surface quality, lower tool wear, and shorter processing times, all essential to achieving greener and more efficient production.

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3. Key Factors Driving the Success of Sustainable Manufacturing

Sustainability innovation cannot happen in isolation; it's built on collaboration between manufacturers and their suppliers.

Hyperion stands out as a global leader in environmental sustainability, focusing its initiatives in four core areas:

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - minimizing waste and promoting circular material use.

2. Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions - optimizing energy efficiency in production.

3. Empower Employees - encouraging staff involvement in sustainability programs.

4. Collaborate for Innovation - co-developing solutions that advance global sustainability goals.

Aligned with this vision, AMS aims to support Vietnam's green manufacturing journey under Decision 896 (2022) on the National Climate Change Strategy to 2050, following Vietnam's COP26 commitment to achieve net-zero emissions.

By distributing Hyperion's polishing solutions, AMS reinforces its mission to provide advanced, sustainable engineering solutions. As part of this global trend, AMS continues to position itself as a trusted technical partner for manufacturers across multiple industries.

4. Why Choose Polishing Solutions from AMS?

When it comes to Hyperion polishing products, AMS lets the results speak for themselves. We provide customers with test samples, allowing them to evaluate performance and decide based on real-world results and satisfaction.

AMS experts recommend eco-friendly polishing solutions to manufacturers seeking modern, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable polishing materials.

Hyperion's Commitments to Sustainability:

• Reduce/Reuse/Recycle: Hyperion minimizes its environmental footprint through material recycling and product lifecycle management. The company works with customers to recycle used tungsten carbide tools and components, reprocessing them into raw materials while maintaining premium quality standards.

• Lower Carbon Emissions: Hyperion continuously upgrades its facilities and production processes to reduce CO₂ and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting global carbon neutrality efforts.

• People, Culture, and Awareness: A sustainable mindset is the foundation of success. Hyperion empowers employees to initiate and participate in environmental programs, dedicating resources to support these initiatives.

• Product Innovation: With decades of experience in materials science and precision engineering, Hyperion develops technologies for energy, mining, and manufacturing sectors, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability.

5. Conclusion

In the context of sustainable manufacturing, surface finishing is no longer just the final step; it reflects a company's technological capability and environmental responsibility.

With Hyperion's eco-friendly polishing solutions, sustainability begins at the microscopic level right from each diamond particle. AMS is proud to deliver these advanced solutions to manufacturers across Vietnam, driving the nation's progress toward a cleaner, greener, and smarter production future.

AMS Company, Ltd.
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