Assessing sustainable production: A selection of indicators aligned with the SDGs

Abstract

Sustainability is a paramount concern for manufacturing companies, necessitating the adoption of sustainable production and circular economy strategies. However, quantifying these sustainability efforts remains a formidable challenge due to the absence of a standardized framework, consequently hindering the development of effective strategies. This study presents a framework comprising 39 indicators, each accompanied by a descriptive calculation method, recommended units, and a suggested trend. These indicators were meticulously selected through a comprehensive literature review and refined via expert consensus during semi-structured interviews. To establish a tangible connection between the operational world of companies and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we employ a visualization tool – the Sankey diagram. This diagram unravels the intricate links between the selected indicators and the SDGs. Both contributions provide manufacturers with a clear roadmap to quantify and align their actions with broader global objectives. © 2023 The Authors. Sustainable Development published by ERP Environment and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.