June 18, 2025 By: Madeleine Davis, Westfall Technik Supply Chain/ESG Analyst
At Westfall Technik, we are driven by a vision of excellence, delivering innovative enterprise solutions that power industries while safeguarding the planet. Water, a vital force that sustains ecosystems and fuels progress, can carry debris and materials into waterways through surface runoff when not properly managed. As a leading plastic injection molding and mold-making manufacturer, Westfall Technik embraces our pivotal role in sustainability, ensuring the responsible use of plastics—a material essential to medical devices, packaging, and countless innovations that enhance modern life.
THE OPPORTUNITY: MANUFACTURERS AS STEWARDS OF SUSTAINABILITY
Stormwater runoff can transport materials into local rivers, lakes, and oceans, impacting water quality. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), effective stormwater management can reduce pollutant loads by up to 90%, protecting ecosystems and communities. At Westfall Technik, we view this as an opportunity to lead by example. By preventing materials like plastic pellets—critical components in our precision manufacturing processes—from entering storm drains, we uphold our commitment to environmental stewardship while showcasing the positive impact of responsibly managed plastics.
WESTFALL TECHNIK’S SOLUTION: ADVANCED STORM DRAIN COVERS AT RIVERSIDE, CA FACILITY
Our Westfall Riverside facility has implemented a groundbreaking initiative to enhance sustainability through the installation of advanced storm drain covers. These state-of-the-art covers are engineered with precision to allow water to flow efficiently while capturing debris and plastic pellets used in our production. This ensures that our operations contribute to cleaner waterways, aligning with our mission to deliver sustainable enterprise solutions.
BEFORE: A CALL FOR INNOVATION
Previously, standard storm drain covers at Riverside had larger gaps, which were less effective at containing smaller materials. While functional, they highlighted the need for a more advanced solution to meet Westfall Technik’s rigorous sustainability standards.
AFTER: A BENCHMARK FOR EXCELLENCE
The newly installed storm drain covers feature a fine mesh design, meticulously crafted to prevent plastic pellets from entering drainage systems while maintaining optimal water flow. This innovation not only prevents blockages and enhances safety but also protects local ecosystems, demonstrating Westfall Technik’s technical leadership in pollution prevention.
IMPACT & LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING
The Riverside initiative underscores Westfall Technik’s role as a trailblazer in sustainable manufacturing. By preventing plastic pellets from reaching waterways, we contribute to healthier ecosystems and reinforce the value of plastics when managed responsibly. A 2023 report by the Plastics Industry Association highlights that manufacturers adopting proactive sustainability measures, like Westfall Technik, can reduce environmental impacts while meeting growing demand for eco-conscious solutions. Our efforts at Riverside are a model for the industry, showcasing how manufacturers can drive positive change.
A VISION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Sustainability is woven into Westfall Technik’s DNA, from our Green Team’s quarterly Continuous Improvement Projects to our Supplier LoCT Scope 1&2 Footprinting Badges. The success at Riverside is a stepping stone toward expanding advanced stormwater management across our facilities. We are also exploring innovations like real-time environmental monitoring and sustainable material sourcing to further elevate our impact. As a leader in precision molding and mold-making, Westfall Technik is committed to exceeding regulatory standards and setting new benchmarks for sustainability.
PARTNERING FOR A HEALTHIER PLANET
Westfall Technik invites our customers, suppliers, and communities to join us in celebrating the vital role manufacturers play in sustainability. The Riverside storm drain covers are a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and environmental responsibility. Together, we can ensure that plastics continue to enable progress while protecting the planet for future generations.
References:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “National Menu of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Stormwater,” 2023.
Plastics Industry Association, “Sustainability in Plastics Manufacturing,” 2023.
