By establishing its new sustainability function, Stratasys is one step closer to meeting UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Stratasys has committed to steering its additive manufacturing solutions towards a more environmental, social and government (ESG) direction. Promoted as Stratasys Sustainability, this initiative will foster a circular, sustainable economy that curtails material waste, limits carbon emissions, and facilitates technical knowledge of all facets of additive manufacturing—in turn, bolstering Stratasys’ position as a leader in polymer 3D printing solutions.
“Beyond the global pandemic, climate change is a growing worldwide concern,” said Stratasys CEO, Yoav Zeif. “It is our mission to translate our leadership in 3D printing into mindful business applications for our customers—where less waste is produced and more value derived from the digital processes that drive our manufacturing solutions. This approach is aimed at assisting our customers in reducing their carbon footprint, with less dependency on mass shipment of inventories and parts, shortening and localizing supply chains across industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare and consumer products.”
The initiative brings Stratasys one step closer towards achieving four of 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
- Responsible Consumption and Production: Stratasys is adopting sound waste management strategies, practicing responsible water and energy consumption, recycling materials where applicable (packaging, etc.), and promoting minimal waste of materials through efficient additive manufacturing.
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Stratasys is cultivating more jobs and purchasing power through industrialization, fostering engineering and design innovations that benefit people from all walks of life, cultivating entrepreneurship in various communities through solutions that are local and cost-effective, and funneling a variety of additive manufacturing benefits to diverse consumers and manufacturers alike.
- Climate Action: Stratasys’ advanced digital manufacturing solutions are assisting in the reduction of transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions, as well as limiting excess energy consumption and waste production. Reducing its carbon footprint is a vital step in Stratasys’ quest for sustainability, and doing so stands to encourage other industry leaders to adopt similar practices.
- Quality Education: Stratasys is promoting inclusivity and equitable learning opportunities, thereby kindling innovation and problem-solving capabilities. By marketing its solutions to educators, it is also encouraging a “learn by making” approach towards additive manufacturing which provides would-be workers with the technical know-how to lead the 3D printing industry to new heights.
To oversee such a monumental effort, Stratasys has appointed Rosa Coblens as its Vice President of Sustainability, who also serves in the board of directors at the Additive Manufacturer Green Table Association (AMGTA). Established in November 2019 with Stratasys as its founding member, AMGTA’s main goal is to shed light on the benefits of additive manufacturing from the standpoint of material waste, efficacy, and reduction of carbon emissions. It also helps establish best practices with 3D printing, and assists in marketing and promotion for companies that are using additive manufacturing solutions.
“The new global economy requires companies to adapt and overcome unexpected challenges while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Zeif. “Stratasys is well-positioned to provide production and manufacturing solutions that are resilient, empower local supply chains, and most importantly save lives.”