Synergy between the circular economy and 3D printing

Abstract

The circular economy is the antithesis of the linear economy. Circular products are designed so that they can be easily reused, disassembled, repaired, or recycled. In the 3D printing sector, there are numerous initiatives to develop manufacturing processes where waste is reused and repurposed, thus reducing the environmental impact of additive manufacturing. It is necessary that all actors participating in the design and production process respect the principles of the sustainable production model and the maximization of the efficiency of processes and materials. 3D printing can facilitate circularity at various stages: production, maintenance, reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling. The aim of the paper is to point out the synergy between the circular economy and 3D printing, with a focus on the contributions of 3D printing to the circular economy.

Keywords

• circular economy
• 3d printing
• additive manufacturing
• sustainable development