Title: Exploring the impact of additive manufacturing on circular economy in the Finnish boatbuilding industry: insights from an R&D lab

Authors: Weimu You; Jukka Majava; Osmo Kauppila

Addresses: Centria University of Applied Sciences, Finland and Industrial Engineering and Management, Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu, Finland ' Industrial Engineering and Management, Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu, Finland ' Industrial Engineering and Management, Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu, Finland

Abstract: As Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and circular economy (CE) gain increasing attention in both academic and industrial circles, this study investigates the role of I4.0 technologies, particularly additive manufacturing (AM), in advancing CE principles. Focusing on an R&D lab with experiences in the Finnish boatbuilding industry, the research explores how these technologies facilitate the adoption of CE practices. A thorough review of existing literature on AM and CE was conducted, followed by empirical research using qualitative methods and a case study approach. Data was gathered through interviews and supplemented by secondary sources. Thematic analysis revealed that AM positively impacts the CE in the boatbuilding industry, influencing product design, production processes, environmental sustainability, financial outcomes, and social factors. The study aligns with existing literature and offers practical recommendations for manufacturers, along with suggestions for future research.

Keywords: Industry 4.0; additive manufacturing; circular economy; R&D lab.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2025.151245

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2025 Vol.39 No.6, pp.571 - 594

Received: 29 Aug 2024
Accepted: 24 Jul 2025
Published online: 19 Jan 2026 *

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