3D printing offers a range of environmental advantages compared to traditional large-scale manufacturing, which is often located on the other side of the world. Here are some key reasons why 3D printing is a more sustainable alternative:
Local Production:
By manufacturing products close to the customer rather than transporting them across the globe, 3D printing significantly reduces emissions from long-distance transportation. This means less CO₂ emissions and a smaller environmental footprint. Additionally, prototypes, models, and parts can be delivered much faster.
Reduced Material Waste:
Traditional manufacturing methods, such as CNC machining, turning, and milling, often generate substantial amounts of waste material. In contrast, 3D printing builds objects layer by layer, using only the material required. This results in significantly less waste.
Flexible and Just-in-Time Production:
3D printing enables on-demand production, reducing the need for large inventories and overproduction. This minimizes waste and the resources required for storage and handling. Companies employing this approach also lower the risk of being stuck with unsold stock from a new product that didn’t perform as expected.
Use of Biodegradable Materials:
Many 3D printing materials, like PLA, are biodegradable and have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional plastics like ABS. This helps reduce the amount of non-biodegradable waste in the world's oceans and natural ecosystems.
Energy Efficiency:
3D printers are often more energy-efficient than large industrial machines used in traditional production processes. This results in a lower overall energy consumption.
Our Climate Goals and Initiatives
We are committed to minimizing our environmental impact and contributing to a more sustainable future. Here are some of the steps we are taking to achieve our climate goals:
Use of Local Materials:
We primarily use filament from a Swedish supplier, reducing transportation distances and the emissions associated with long-haul shipping. By supporting local suppliers, we also contribute to the regional economy. If you’re in need of 3D printing materials, we recommend checking out our partner, AddNorth.
Reusing Packaging Materials:
We extend the lifespan of cardboard boxes and packing materials by reusing them. This reduces the need for new packaging production and minimizes waste. Don’t be surprised if you receive a package with a different company’s logo on it—it’s all part of our sustainability efforts.
Recycling Print Material:
We collect leftover printing materials and ensure they are properly recycled. This includes any scrap or byproducts from our production processes.
Eco-Friendly Production:
All our production runs on renewable green energy. Where possible, we schedule 3D printing jobs during nighttime hours to reduce demand on the energy grid during peak times when other industries and people need energy.
Environmentally Conscious Design Choices:
We encourage our customers to design their products in ways that minimize material usage and energy consumption during production.
By choosing Gothenburg 3D-printing, you are supporting a more sustainable future. Contact us to learn more about how our solutions can help you achieve your environmental goals while providing high-quality, cost-effective products.