Global Frameworks & Organizations

Consistent with its mission to advance sustainable manufacturing and its vision to drive transformative impact, SMAL contributes to several key United Nations SDGs. The lab’s research supports Goal 7 by advancing affordable and clean energy solutions that drive sustainable manufacturing. In alignment with Goal 8, SMAL fosters decent work opportunities and promotes sustainable economic growth through innovation and advanced analytics. Addressing Goal 9, the lab investigates the vital connection between industry, innovation, and infrastructure as key drivers of sustainable industrialization. Research activities also support Goal 12 by promoting responsible consumption and production, minimizing environmental impacts, and enhancing resource efficiency. In accordance with Goal 13, the lab advances climate action by developing strategies for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience in manufacturing systems. Finally, reflecting Goal 17, SMAL recognizes the essential role of partnerships and collaboration in achieving the SDGs and sustaining long-term outcomes. Read SDGs

SMAL’s work advances UNEP’s core objectives by promoting resource efficiency, supporting climate action, enabling pollution prevention, and encouraging sustainable production and consumption practices. Through analytics-driven solutions and knowledge dissemination, the lab empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions that accelerate environmental progress and contribute to a future where manufacturing and the environment are in harmony. Read UNEP

SMAL supports WEF’s vision by advancing research in sustainable manufacturing, circular economy practices, and resilient supply chains. The lab leverages advanced analytics and AI-driven innovations to address global challenges highlighted by the WEF, such as resource efficiency, climate action, industry transformation, and responsible growth. By aligning with WEF’s strategic insights, SMAL aims to inform industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in fostering sustainable and inclusive industrial development. Read WEF

SMAL supports the U.S. Department of Energy’s mission to advance the nation’s energy security, technological leadership, and environmental responsibility. Through research in energy-efficient manufacturing, adoption of clean energy technologies, and optimization of resource use, SMAL contributes to DOE priorities in innovation, sustainability, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Read DOE

SMAL aligns with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s objectives by promoting sustainable manufacturing practices that reduce pollution, minimize waste, and protect natural resources. The lab’s analytics-driven approaches and commitment to environmental stewardship support EPA guidelines and initiatives for cleaner production, regulatory compliance, and responsible industrial development. Read EPA 

SMAL’s research addresses workplace safety and health by developing methodologies and tools that identify, assess, and mitigate occupational hazards in manufacturing environments. This focus is in line with OSHA’s mission to ensure safe and healthful working conditions, contributing to the advancement of best practices in industrial safety, risk management, and employee well-being. Read OSHA

SMAL advances the frontiers of knowledge in sustainable manufacturing and systems engineering in alignment with the National Science Foundation’s mission to promote scientific discovery, innovation, and education. The lab’s interdisciplinary research, collaborative projects, and educational outreach contribute to NSF’s vision of fostering a vibrant and globally competitive science and engineering enterprise. Read NSF

Through the development and implementation of advanced manufacturing analytics and standards-based solutions, SMAL contributes to the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s efforts to improve industrial competitiveness and promote innovation. The lab’s work enhances measurement, quality assurance, and process optimization, supporting NIST’s leadership in science, technology, and standards development. Read NIST

SMAL advances the principles of ISO 14001 by developing data-driven solutions for environmental management in manufacturing. Research at the lab supports systematic approaches to minimize environmental impacts, improve resource use, and enhance overall sustainability in line with international best practices. Through analytics-driven projects focused on energy optimization, SMAL contributes to the goals of ISO 50001. The lab’s work helps organizations implement efficient energy management strategies, reduce consumption, and promote sustainable energy use across industrial operations. SMAL supports continuous improvement and quality assurance in manufacturing by aligning research activities with the standards of ISO 9001. Lab initiatives foster process consistency, robust quality control, and customer satisfaction through advanced analytics and technology integration. The lab’s research enhances workplace safety by applying the guidelines of ISO 45001. SMAL develops tools and methodologies that assess and mitigate occupational hazards, contributing to safer, healthier manufacturing environments. SMAL encourages responsible supply chain practices in accordance with ISO 20400. Research initiatives promote sustainable procurement by evaluating supplier practices, lifecycle impacts, and ethical sourcing to strengthen sustainability throughout the supply chain. The lab employs life cycle assessment methodologies in alignment with ISO 14040, enabling comprehensive evaluation of environmental impacts across product lifecycles. These efforts guide decision-making toward more sustainable manufacturing and product development.

SMAL seeks to engage with leading professional societies and research networks to advance sustainable manufacturing and analytics. These networks foster collaboration, innovation, and the dissemination of impactful research.