trends

Sustainability is integral to Stratasys’ mission, as we recognize the unique value that additive manufacturing.We are dedicated to redesigning products, processes, and parts to benefit people and the planet – we call it Mindful Manufacturing™. This approach to research, design, and manufacturing requires a shift in mindset as the value of AM with our customers and share a commitment to innovation with a reduced ecological footprint. We are working internally to improve our own operations, focusing on redesigning our machines, and  for implementing additive manufacturing to help them determine the value they achieve when for their business they choose Stratasys equipment

Additive manufacturing can contribute to sustainable strategies, support optimized manufacturing processes, and improve supply chains. As a global company, Stratasys is proactively committed to responsible business conduct. Four of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are directly linked to our ability to make a significant impact on sustainability under the banner of Mindful Manufacturing™.

We are implementing an ESG strategy that goes beyond compliance, driven by the belief that “doing good” is good for healthy, long-term business growth. Our technologies, materials and software enable manufacturing that is less dependent on natural resources, produces less waste and improves supply chains. We are now preparing to gather data with our customers to demonstrate the value AM brings to their business.

This value proposition is realized at different points in the manufacturing and product lifecycle, depending on the use case. For example, in the aerospace industry, unique geometries of printing result in parts that are durable and high-quality at a fraction of their previous weight; and when applied to aircraft, they significantly reduce fuel consumption. In the fashion industry, we reduce unnecessary inventory and optimize supply chains by printing on-site and on-demand. This is simply not possible with traditional manufacturing methods. Our patient-specific healthcare products improve surgical outcomes and save lives. Is there anything more sustainable than that?

Manufacturing is resource-intensive, that’s for sure, but there are ways to reduce and/or mitigate resource use. A recent project we were involved in in late 2023 illustrates how AM can make a difference. Reeves Insight was commissioned by the Additive Manufacturing Green Trade Association (AMGTA) to conduct a life cycle analysis report. The report, titled “Comparative Analysis: Material Jetting vs. Traditional Methods for Designer Luxury Goods,” details the results of a year-long study that examined the transition from traditional manufacturing methods to industrial AM for a given application. Key findings from the study include a 24.8% reduction in CO2e emissions compared to traditional processes; a 49.9% reduction in inventory in the supply chain, which also reduces and streamlines associated transportation needs; and 50.0% less material in the 3D printed logo component. The study also showed that over 300,000 liters of water were saved for the 16,000 units and electricity consumption was reduced by 64%. We are working to move forward with our internal efforts. We are not “going green”, but reducing our footprint through renewable energy and continuous improvements. However, sustainability is a path we have embarked on and we know that “what cannot be measured cannot be improved”, which is why we work to support our customers, humanity and our planet.