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Applying TRUE to manufacturing projects

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Why use TRUE for manufacturing projects? 

In addition to the benefits that apply across all sectors (such as a comprehensive, whole systems approach to achieving zero waste and the value of obtaining rigorous third-party certification), manufacturing facilities are increasingly adopting TRUE certification to meet ESG goals, enhance operational efficiency, and demonstrate leadership in environmental sustainability. TRUE certification helps manufacturing projects reduce waste, optimize resource use, and improve overall sustainability performance.

How many manufacturing projects are registered and certified under TRUE?

As of April 2025, there are approximately 183 TRUE-certified and registered manufacturing projects. Manufacturing facilities represent one of the most common facility types pursuing TRUE certification, accounting for approximately 20% of all TRUE projects. This includes projects certified through both the one-off process and multiple-building applications such as portfolio certification.

What is the TRUE portfolio program, and how can manufacturing projects benefit from the offering?

For organizations planning to certify many projects, the TRUE Portfolio Approach to certification can simplify TRUE documentation and speed up the review process for those portfolios where uniformity and standardization of the TRUE requirements are built into the facilities’ operational processes. Using this option streamlines TRUE certifications by focusing on similarities in policies and practices – no matter where the projects are located. For organizations that certify multiple buildings within a given timeframe, this option offers valuable economies of scale. Learn more.

How do multiple buildings and structures in a campus setting earn TRUE certification?

Manufacturing projects commonly operate with multiple buildings spread across a single site. To address this, the TRUE Campus Guidance was introduced for projects that are on a shared site under the control of a single entity. Its application to TRUE projects represents the complexity and commonality of buildings and infrastructure on a site. TRUE Campus Guidance is available in the Guide to TRUE Certification, highlighting the conditions for campuses with multiple buildings and campus‐wide management policies. Project teams can benefit from an increase in streamlined review process, and reduced certification fees under the Group Campus approach, leading to successful implementation of TRUE projects.

What issues are unique to manufacturing projects? 

The storage and transportation of goods presents a strong financial return on investment for reusable shipping containers and a reduction of single use packaging materials. In addition, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) practices and personnel are often important to the operations of warehouse and distribution centers, which provides a natural fit for many projects to add zero waste policies, practices and culture into their facility. If a company has multiple warehouses and distribution centers, often a representative or zero waste champion from each site joins a company-wide green team, to share best practices and opportunities for achieving zero waste and TRUE certification. A good first step for these individuals is to take the TRUE Advisor certificate program to establish a common terminology and set of strategies.

Where can I find owner profiles and case studies on manufacturing projects?

Does USGBC offer any education for project teams wanting to learn more about manufacturing projects pursuing leadership with materials management?

Yes! Check out the following sessions in the USGBC online course catalog:

Who can I contact for more information? 

For more information about TRUE and how it applies to manufacturing projects, contact us.

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