New paper: Digitisation crucial for circular industry

Use of data is key to achieving full circularity by 2050. The paper outlines a timeline for the Netherlands.

Digital transformation throughout in the chain will lead to a circular industry

To successfully transition to a sustainable ecosystem of smart digital factories and smart chains, all parties in the chain have to participate and adopt the same standards. Start digitising your processes today and discuss digital transformation with your suppliers and customers. The more companies throughout the chain adopt this approach, the sooner all players will speak the same language and operate digitally.

Achieving full circular industry is essentially a Digitisation challenge

Data can be fed into robots and used to create automated workstations and flexible production systems. This is the basis of the digital factory. The pandemic has underscored the importance of resources and production chains. Scarcity of raw materials and inevitable climate change make it essential to take action. It’s time to rise to the challenge of digital transformation.

An example of what circular industry will look like in 2050

Manufacturers will build sustainable cars equipped with sensors that send the manufacturer real-time data about the status of each part and its use. Small parts will be manufactured on demand by specialised 3D print shops. Larger parts will be supplied by the refurbishment facility in your region. If too many parts of your car have reached the end of their service life, the manufacturer will deliver a new one to you. Your old car will be fully recycled at the factory.