Industry 4.0 Technologies and their Implications for Environmental Sustainability in the Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

The advent of Industry 4.0 has revolutionized the manufacturing industry by incorporating interconnectivity, decentralized decision-making, resource optimization, and automation. This transformation has been made possible through the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Cyber-Physical Systems, the Internet of Things, Big Data Analytics, and Blockchain Technology. However, while Industry 4.0 has primarily focused on production efficiency and real-time transparency, the need for the transition toward a holistically sustainable environment has become increasingly urgent. As a result, the term Industry 5.0 was devised, merging the concept of Industry 4.0 with sustainability, resilience, and human-centric goals. This paper explores the potential areas of influence these technologies have on the environmental dimension of sustainability. The findings indicate that various Industry 4.0 technologies can contribute to environmental sustainability in manufacturing. These technologies offer opportunities to optimize supply chain performance, improve product traceability, reduce waste, enhance resource management, and minimize overall environmental impact. By understanding the implications of Industry 4.0 for environmental sustainability, researchers, policymakers, and industry practitioners can collaborate to develop strategies that integrate advanced technologies and sustainable practices in the manufacturing sector. The research provides insights into the potential benefits of these technologies for environmental sustainability and calls for further investigation to fully explore their environmental dimensions.