Cleaner Production as a Corporate Sustainable Tool: A Study of Companies from Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil

This study aimed to assess the Cleaner Production—CP as a corporate sustainability tool, through the study of multiple case studies within companies from Rio Grande do Norte State. In order to achieve this goal our research methodology approach used the CP methodology from SEBRAE (2005) (based on CP programme of UNEP/UNIDO and applied it within the food industry (Company 1), the textile industry (Company 2) and in a car dealer (Company 3). The results highlighted (among other variables) the specific sustainability focus of any observed Cleaner Production activities. In the Company 1, raw material substitution and the optimization of water and energy usage were the main foci. In Company 2, the foci were the optimization of fabric usage and the technological modification (installation of washing equipment for the printing plates, before of this, there was not control of water usage in this process, resulting in increased water consumption and disposal of waste). Company 3 was focused on source segregation and external recycling. Thus, it was possible the implement within three companies a prevent control of significant environmental aspects, providing evidence to the incorporation of environmental issues in the corporate management process, as well as decreasing the operational risks among employees, community and environment. On the other hand, the continuity of the CP program depends on the total commitment from the top management. In addition to understanding the specific Cleaner Production foci chosen by each case company, the paper reflects on the reasons why the company may has chosen that focus, and implications for the adoption of Cleaner Production.