Can Industry 5.0 be seen as a remedy for the problem of waste in industrial companies?

Abstract

Digitization, computerization, robotization and automation are setting new directions for the development of industrial companies. Modern digital technologies are shaping the framework of a new industrial era which is characterized not only by merging of material and digital resources, but above all by focus on human needs and interests. Undoubtedly, a very important need of modern societies is to function in a clean, unpolluted environment. The article addresses the problem of waste generated in industrial enterprises in the context of Industry 5.0. Due to the fact that Industry 5.0 is clearly oriented toward sustainability and environmental protection, the article presents opportunities for using Industry 5.0 tools to reduce the level of waste in industrial companies. In addition, the article highlights the environmental aspect in defining Industry 5.0, describes trends in industrial waste levels and waste handling methods in the European Union, and, most importantly, shows how Industry 5.0 can contribute to reduction of waste. The goal of the article was therefore to identify opportunities to reduce waste levels using Industry 5.0 solutions.