The Environmental Protection and Effective Energy Consumption in the Light of the EFQM Model 2020—Case Study

Abstract

This research uses an inductive inference approach supported by a literature study and deductive reasoning supported by a case study method. This article is based on a comprehensive literature review which was a foundation for preparation a planned research in organizations implementing the EFQM 2020 Model in order to build a strategy for sustainable development and energy conservation. EFQM is an abbreviation for the name of the European Foundation for Quality Management, a member organization associating entities interested in building lasting value and respecting the ethical principles of running a business. EFQM is headquartered in Brussels, and the partners operate in dozens of countries around the world. The case study methodology is used to present a strategic approach to environmental protection and energy conservation in terms of the EFQM 2020 Model guidelines on the example of an international manufacturing company. The main area of activity is the automotive industry, which is positioned as an innovative leader. The assessment was performed in one of the departments specializing in safety elements—elements of the braking system in the car. This business unit has many plants with different locations around the world. The results of the research show that environmental protection and efficient energy consumption are an important element of the company’s strategy. These activities permeate all areas of activity and are reflected in the implementation of management systems and tools aimed at environmental protection. A detailed analysis of the criteria and guidelines of the EFQM 2020 Model showed that each criterion includes guidelines for environmental protection and energy saving measures. Based on the analysis of the researched organization, we can conclude that the conduct in accordance with the guidelines of the EFQM 2020 Model translates into the achievement of measurable, positive results, also in the environmental area, which was the axis of consideration.

Charging Stations and Electromobility Development: A Cross-Country Comparative Analysis

“…However, the cooperation between organizations in such a system brings more positive than adverse effects. Companies specializing in a particular field are less likely to be re-branded, whereas newly established start-ups have the opportunity to fully adapt to the market and a given demand for specific services or products [13].…”

“…New technologies and innovations [1,2], related to the Industry 4.0 idea in the energy sector [3,4], are genuinely powering the digital economy [5,6]. Industry 4.0 is a concept related to the use of automation [7], data processing [8], and data exchange [9], employed especially in practice in car charging stations, its infrastructure [10,11], and energy distribution networks [12,13]. The electromobility is developed through the Industry 4.0 features [14,15], which can be measured by the growing number of electric cars or electric vehicles (EVs) [16,17] and charging stations [18,19].…”

A New Conceptual Model for Excellence in Business Towards Sustainable Development

“…Yu, Khan and Umar (2022) concluded that I4.0 has a positive impact on the implementation of a circular economy (CE), and, in its turn, a CE has a positive impact on operational and economic performance. Also, as reported by Martusewicz, Szewczyk and Wierzbic (2022), the concept of CE is mentioned in the EFQM model in criteria 5.5 and 6. Turisová et al (2020) used this model version to analyse the readiness of companies for I4.0 in a specified area.…”

“…In turn, the newest EFQM model version is highly oriented towards promoting sustainability (Muhammad Din et al, 2021;Val, Regaliza and Maraña, 2020). Martusewicz, Szewczyk and Wierzbic (2022) concluded that the model in analysis is a great tool to "create, implement and monitor strategies" regarding environmental practices. Politis and Grigoroudis (2022) 3.4, 3.5, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 6, and 7, reaffirming the urge to innovate, promote creativity, develop a "disruptive thinking", and promote the use of technology (Fonseca, 2022;Martusewicz, Szewczyk and Wierzbic, 2022;Politis and Grigoroudis, 2022).…”

Electromobility: Logistics and Business Ecosystem Perspectives Review

“…This involves not only the expansion of the energy infrastructure but also the provision of adequate power. Unfortunately, RES are characterized by instability of energy production and varying efficiency [141], e.g., due to geographical location [142]. Therefore, protection against the loss of so-called blackouts from RES is being sought through energy storage and the creation of closed energy circuits.…”