Introduction
This article is “On environmental impacts of technologies in 3d printing”. This speaks about a neoteric type of manufacturing known as additive manufacturing or 3D printing. In this approach, objects are assembled one at a time using predetermined CAD models. This article talks about the rising trend of 3D printing that has been evolving rapidly in various sectors, such as the automobile industry, including airplanes and medicine (Khosravani & Reinicke, 2020). Nonetheless, it is essential to note that we need more understanding of how this approach influences the natural environment. It says there is no perfect process for 3D printing, although it would be cheaper and faster than the standard methods.
Summary of Main Points
The article discusses the new approach to fabrication, three-dimensional print. Based on computer design models, this method constructs objects, one layer at a time. The article notes that 3D printing is utilized in different industries, such as in making cars, airplanes, electronics, dentistry, and medicine. It says that although 3D proliferates, we need information regarding its environmental impact. The article’s central part discusses Energy consumption, solid waste, and Air contamination. It first explains how much energy 3D printing consumes compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. It argues whether 3D printing results in more or less energy than other manufacturing methods. It focuses on waste generated in 3D printing. This explains that waste may be produced using traditional processes such as molding or casting. However, in 3D printing, the process differs, and the paper asks whether this involves fewer types of waste or brings more waste up.
The article concludes with a discussion on air pollution. It states that all air is polluted through all manufacturing processes. The study challenges us to think if there are different or equal air-pollution-related environmental consequences of 3D printing and other technologies. The message is consistent throughout the article, stating that we have to think about the positives and negatives of 3D printing on the environment. However, this indicates that although a change in 3D printing can reduce production cost, energy use, and time, more information must be provided about its contribution to environmental conservation. It ends with a call for further investigation into the impact of this form of technology, considering its usage, environmental degradation, and emissions.
Conclusion
This paper delves into the environmental concerns of 3D printing. This article speaks of the rapid growth of a technology that has yet to be well understood regarding its effects on nature. These topics include energy saving, waste products, and air pollution. However, it emphasizes that 3D printing is beneficial in certain circumstances, but one has to know 3D’s positives and negatives. This highlights the importance of further research and attention in this area of concern. Therefore, while traveling in the fantastic realm of 3D printing, let us also consider its impact on the natural environment and attempt to make it into a green and clean one.
Reflection
Considering the article on the environmental implications of 3D printing, I have realized that although this technology makes us experience some fascinating developments, it also has consequences for the environment that we seldom pay attention to. This made me aware that 3D printing in schools or homes has environmental implications and, therefore, must be given due consideration. This article taught me that there’s much more than production – what this activity consumes of the environment and if it can leave some residual. The bottom line is that it warns against mindlessly following new technology and its pros and cons. Let’s devise means of using our 3D printers sensibly and consider the world.
Reference
Khosravani, M. R., & Reinicke, T. (2020). On the environmental impacts of 3D printing technology. Applied Materials Today, 20, 100689.