Whirlpool Corp. site in Cassinetta, northern Italy, reached its zero waste to landfill goal a year ahead of schedule, and reduced its carbon emissions by 38 percent in just four years. Cassinetta is one of many manufacturing, research and development centers in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) region for the American household appliance company, which is aiming for carbon neutrality at all of its 54 sites around the world by 2030.

Other sustainable improvements at the plant that manufactures built-in ovens, refrigerators and microwaves include cutting electricity during breaks, recycling plastic, reducing the use of polystyrene, and opting for electric power over fossil fuels.

Employing nearly 3,000 employees, the plant sits in close proximity to 80 percent of its supply chain suppliers, reducing the carbon footprint needed to transport components and raw materials to the plant.