In recent times, the necessity to decrease the negative impact of the industrial sector has gained utmost importance, which is getting recognized as a global challenge due to the rapid increase in life quality standards, demand, and the decrease in available resources. Thus, manufacturing, as a core of the product provision system and a fundamental pillar of civilized existence, is significantly influenced by sustainability issues.

The “sustainable manufacturing” concept refers to all industrial activities from the factory to the customer including all in-between steps (i.e., resources and services that are connected to the manufacturing chain). Considering that manufacturing processes are responsible for the production of essential products to improve the quality of human life and the global economy, it is vital to analyse it from the sustainability point of view. In order to fully understand the “sustainable manufacturing” concept, it is necessary to define and clarify the approach objectives, implementation steps, as well as assessment techniques. When taking the full perspective of sustainability into consideration, sustainable manufacturing can be an essential strategy to promote better financial performance and satisfy social and environmental objectives and regulations.

This forum has been created to exchange ideas and disseminate knowledge on the pragmatic approaches towards sustainable manufacturing and safety.