The manufacturing industry faces challenges such as waste reduction, material consumption optimization, and lowering carbon footprints. It is becoming increasingly clear that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity. At the Rethink Production study trip in Germany, organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (GZS), we explored the role of 3D printing in sustainable manufacturing, gaining insight into new approaches to industrial 3D printing and hybrid production.
And while 3D printing is a frequently discussed topic, it is only by seeing it in practice that one can truly grasp its scope and potential.
Industry 5.0: From Automation to Sustainability
The transition from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0 shifts the focus from automation and digitalization to humans, sustainability, and social responsibility. This new paradigm emphasizes:
- Collaboration between humans and technology to develop innovative solutions
- Circular economy principles and environmental standards taking center stage
- Product personalization and adaptability becoming the new norm rather than an exception
Industrial 3D printing is one of the key technologies driving this transformation—not just in optimizing production but also in eco-design, which redefines product development.
What is Eco-Design and Why Should It Be Integrated into Manufacturing?
Eco-design is not just about aesthetics; it is a strategic approach to sustainable and responsible manufacturing. Key elements include:
- Less material, more optimization – Topological optimization and generative design can reduce material consumption by 30–60%.
- Lower waste generation – Traditional methods, such as CNC machining or plastic injection molding, generate up to 70% waste, whereas 3D printing optimizes material usage.
- Sustainable materials – 3D printing allows testing of recycled polymers, bio-filaments, and composites already in the prototyping phase.
- Extended product lifespan – Modular design enables easy repairs, upgrades, and recycling.
The #1 mistake in sustainable manufacturing? Considering sustainability only at the end of the production process. Instead, sustainability must be integrated from the product development phase.
Voxeljet: Our Longstanding Partner
The Rethink Production study trip in Germany was not just an opportunity to explore industry trends but also to visit voxeljet, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial 3D printers.
As a long-term partner and representative of voxeljet in Slovenia, we have been involved in the development of industrial 3D printing for years. However, every opportunity to gain insight into cutting-edge technologies is invaluable. The study trip provided a unique chance to connect with industry experts, review the latest applications in additive manufacturing, and understand how 3D printing is evolving from prototyping to serial production.
One of the most striking moments was witnessing a 9-meter industrial 3D printer in action, opening up entirely new possibilities for manufacturing large-scale components, such as wind turbine parts. While 3D printing is often perceived as a cost-cutting alternative, the reality is different—its main advantage lies in efficiency across the entire manufacturing process:
- Doubling annual production – instead of producing 100 tools per year, manufacturers can now produce 200
- Less handling, shorter production cycles, and reduced transportation requirements
- The ability to integrate such a printer directly into a foundry production line, revolutionizing manufacturing
Industrial 3D printing is no longer an experimental technology—it is a real-world solution already optimizing production processes in major global factories. This study trip provided valuable insights into how the combination of traditional and digital methods can become the new standard in manufacturing.
A Sustainable Future: Standards and Responsibility
3D printing enables faster adaptation to environmental and product sustainability standards and innovative approaches, such as:
ISO 14001 & ISO 14006 – Environmental management and sustainable product design
ISO 14040 LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) – Measuring environmental impact across the entire product lifecycle
ISO 59000 series – Circular economy standards to integrate products into future material cycles for minimal carbon footprint
ISO 56000 series – Helping businesses add value through innovative design and business models
Sustainability is not just a “buzzword”—it requires measurable data and well-defined strategies. Without these, the risk of greenwashing increases, which benefits neither businesses nor the environment.
3D Printing is Not the Future - It’s the Present
Industrial 3D printing and eco-design are transforming product development, manufacturing, and consumption. This represents not only a technological but also a cultural and societal shift, enabling companies to:
Reduce waste and optimize material usage
Develop sustainable and adaptable products
Unlock new business opportunities in the future of manufacturing
The study trip in Germany provided a clear understanding that 3D printing is no longer just a tool for prototyping—it is a key player in sustainable industry.
