Rockwell appoints new sustainability manager

Rockwell Automation has appointed Michael Loke to the position of Industry Manager, Sustainability. Loke will focus on the provision of sustainable manufacturing and processing solutions that are designed to optimise efficiency and minimise waste, while meeting compliance requirements. This appointment provides a valuable resource, particularly as businesses become increasingly aware of the need for energy and environmental conservation.

According to Loke, sustainability has become a key business driver for all industry sectors across Australia and New Zealand, as new demands for accountability are made by governments, industry bodies and end users. “Industry is embracing the need to improve its energy, environmental and safety performance, while still meeting internal business and operating objectives,” he said. “In order to meet these seemingly conflicting objectives, sophisticated automation and control technologies are essential.”

A chartered and professional engineer by qualification, Loke has held various senior positions in the automotive and electronics industries in the UK, US and Asia. Loke joined Rockwell Automation in 2002 and has progressed within the Projects and Services divisions. “With the support of the Rockwell Automation team, I hope to leverage my experience and collaborate with end users in developing their sustainability strategies for the future,” said Loke.

Loke intends to work closely with key industry stakeholders and government agencies, including the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency. “With deep involvement and knowledge surrounding the execution of policy and the planning process, we are able to provide industry with insight into the selection of appropriate automation and control solutions,” said Loke. Rockwell Automation is well placed to assist corporations required by law to submit the National Greenhouse Emissions Report. The report requires the documentation of energy consumption and production of emissions from processing plants and equipment.