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This paper proposes an evaluation framework of input elements in developing sustainable manufacturing (SM) initiatives using the hierarchical structure of sustainability indicators set developed by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (US NIST) and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Determining priority input elements in the development process is essential to ensure that SM initiatives are responsive to the demands of sustainability at firm level. This evaluation exposes a challenge due to the multi-criteria nature of the problem and the presence of subjective criteria with limited available information on their measurement systems. The use of AHP in the context of the hierarchical structure of the US NIST sustainability indicators set provides a comprehensive and promising approach in identifying fundamental inputs in developing effective programs and initiatives that address sustainability. The contribution of this work lies on presenting a framework that could guide decision-makers, in a way that is simple and comprehensive, in their attempt to promote sustainability. Results and implications are reported in this work.