JR Automation Takes Steps Toward Supporting a More Sustainable Future by Eliminating Plastic Water Bottles

In a move toward reducing their environmental footprint, JR Automation announces its decision to cease the purchase of plastic water bottles at all North American locations. This decision comes as JR Automation continues efforts to align its practices with its sustainability objectives.  

Last year, JR Automation’s Holland Michigan locations purchased over 50,000 plastic water bottles, which not only posed a financial burden but also conflicted with the company's commitment to reducing waste and carbon emissions.  

To facilitate this transition, JR Automation's Environment, Health, Safety and Sustainability team introduced reusable cups, available to all employees upon request. Additionally, many of the company's facilities are equipped with water dispensers and drinking fountains to encourage the use of refillable containers.  

"We appreciate the support and cooperation of our employees, partners, and stakeholders as we make this change," said Joel Cooper, Director of Facilities and EH&S at JR Automation. "This is a small but impactful step we can take to further demonstrate our dedication toward sustainability and our world’s future.” 

As a global company, JR Automation strives for sustainability in the three ESG pillars: environment, social, and governance. As a Hitachi Group Company, they continue to align sustainability goals with the Hitachi targets. By 2030, JR Automation’s sustainability targets include: carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, zero landfill, and a CDP grade A.  

 

Established in 1980, JR Automation is a global leader, designing, building, and integrating advanced automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that solve customers’ key operational and productivity challenges. JR Automation serves customers across the globe in a variety of industries, including automotive, life sciences, aerospace, and more.  

In 2019, JR Automation was acquired by Hitachi, Ltd. In a strategic effort towards offering a seamless connection between the physical and cyber space for industrial manufacturers and distributers worldwide. With this partnership, JR Automation provides customers a unique, single-source solution for complete integration of their physical assets and data information, offering greater speed, flexibility, and efficiencies towards achieving their Industry 4.0 visions. JR Automation employs over 2,000 people at 20+ manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia.