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This paper is a composite. It describes research performed initially in Singapore on the integrity of lightweighting (magnesium) alloys and on the sustainability of industrial systems. The work is based upon an approach to engineering integrity and plant operations which incorporates the concept of Industrial Ecology. The first stage of the research was undertaken within an international consortium "Precision Processing of Ultra-Light Alloys and Composites" (PULAC) in Nanyang Technological University and GINTIC, Singapore. Initially this involved studies of lightweighting and enhanced recyclability of engineering cast components for microelectronics and vehicles, focussing on structural integrity and high-pressure die-casting of magnesium alloys. The work then took a new departure in the arena of simulation and modelling. Several case studies were undertaken including the processes of a complete metal supply chain. It involves a pilot plant in Australia (ILM) and a die casting company in Singapore (DYNACAST). The research work has further evolved via a programme at University College Cork within the new Environmental Research Institute -- with a focus on cleaner production, environmental security and industrial sustainability. The paper is organized into three main sections. The first section describes fatigue, fracture and stress-corrosion research on high-pressure die cast magnesium alloy specimens. The second section describes research on the simulation and modelling of industrial processes, which focuses on the sustainability of the light metals industry. The third section describes how the work might evolve through current research developments at the Environmental Research Institute of University College Cork, Ireland. The general idea is to look at the overall integrity of the various projects as a "retrospect and prospect" and to generate this theme for future research and development, as a discussion paper for this Conference.