The Role of Additive Manufacturing in Enhancing Sustainable Manufacturing Practices: A Comparative Study Across Industries

Abstract

The global manufacturing industry is under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce its environmental impact. In this context, Additive Manufacturing (or additive manufacturing) has emerged as a transformative technology with the potential to enable a shift towards greener industrial processes. This study investigates the role of Additive Manufacturing in enhancing sustainable manufacturing across various industries, examining the key opportunities, challenges, and comparative advantages. Through an extensive literature review, analysis of industry case studies, and expert interviews, the research provides a comprehensive assessment of how Additive Manufacturing can contribute to material efficiency, energy conservation, supply chain optimization, and the implementation of circular economy principles. The findings demonstrate that Additive Manufacturing can lead to substantial reductions in resource use, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions, with the extent of benefits varying across different industry sectors. However, the path towards a truly sustainable Additive Manufacturing ecosystem also presents technical, economic, and regulatory hurdles that must be addressed. This article offers recommendations for manufacturers, policymakers, and researchers to leverage the sustainability advantages of Additive Manufacturing and accelerate the transition towards a more environmentally responsible industrial future.