For a Circular Future: Implementation of Additive Manufacturing and Circularity in Cities

Nowadays, cities are based on a linear metabolism. Products end up in incinerators in 
landfills and valuable materials become waste without a new purpose, leading to pollution and a loss of resources along the value chain. This research investigates Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, in relation to waste and circularity in cities. The overall goal is to study the potential of secondary resource circularity by using AM in cities.
This research has a multidisciplinary approach combining interviews and surveys amongst experts in economic, social and technical aspects to find an holistic approach and solution to circularity in cities. We find that the collaboration of international stakeholders, such as policymakers, industry, academics, NGOs, and citizens, in combination with disruptive technologies facilitates new options for business models and collaboration. But also, that the creation of a solid network of actors at a local level can serve as a platform to reach the regional level and bring change within society.