3D Construction Printing and Green Economy: The Intersection of Innovation and Sustainability
Carbon emissions are one of the main issues in global efforts to reduce the impact of climate change. Carbon emissions refer to the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities, including the industrial, transportation, and energy sectors. In the construction sector, carbon emissions come from various sources, ranging from the production process of building materials such as cement and concrete to the use of energy during the construction process. The construction industry is known as one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions, so technological innovations that are able to reduce carbon footprint are an urgent need.
3D Construction Printing (3DCP) technology is present as an innovative solution to overcome the problem of carbon emissions in the construction sector. This technology uses large-scale 3D printers to print building structures with high precision and optimal material efficiency. Unlike conventional construction methods that tend to generate a lot of material waste, 3DCP technology uses only the materials needed to print the structure according to the pre-programmed design. Research published in the article “Appraising the Feasibility of 3D Printing Construction in New Zealand Housing” by Mohammad Khan, Aflah Alamsah Dani, James B. P. Lim, and Krishanu Roy shows that 3DCP technology can reduce carbon emissions by up to 25% compared to conventional methods.
The calculations in the study show that housing projects using 3DCP technology are able to significantly reduce carbon emissions. For example, for every 1,000 cubic meters of concrete used in conventional construction, the resulting carbon emissions reach about 240 tons of CO2. With 3DCP technology, these emissions can be reduced to about 120 tons of CO2, thanks to faster material and process efficiency. In addition, 3DCP also accelerates construction times by up to 70%, which means energy consumption during the construction process can be significantly reduced.
This reduction in carbon emissions is in line with the concept of green economy, which emphasizes sustainable economic growth by minimizing negative impacts on the environment. In the context of the construction industry, the green economy encourages the use of environmentally friendly technologies such as 3DCP to create more efficient and sustainable buildings. One of the important aspects of the green economy is the development of local products that support national economic growth while reducing dependence on imports.
In Indonesia, Autoconz 3DCP has shown its commitment to advancing 3D printing technology in the construction sector by prioritizing local works. One of the important innovations developed by Autoconz is a special mortar for 3D printing which has received a Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification of 68.29%. TKDN certification shows that most of the components in the product are derived from local materials, which not only supports the growth of the domestic industry but also reduces the carbon footprint generated from the material import process.
The relationship between the green economy and TKDN certification is very relevant in efforts to create a more environmentally friendly industry. By prioritizing the use of local raw materials, companies can reduce carbon emissions generated from the transportation and distribution of imported materials. In addition, the use of local products also supports job creation and economic growth at the national level. Autoconz 3DCP, through 3D printing mortar with high TKDN, has proven that technological innovation can go hand in hand with the principles of sustainability and green economy.
The application of 3DCP technology by Autoconz also supports the Indonesian government’s agenda in creating a greener and more sustainable built environment. Through the Circular Letter of the Minister of Public Works Number 22/SE/M/2024 concerning Guidelines for the Performance Assessment of Smart Buildings in the Utilization Stage and the Performance Inspection of Smart Buildings in the Demolition Stage, the government emphasizes the importance of using technology that can reduce carbon emissions during the utilization period until the demolition of the building. The 3DCP technology developed by Autoconz is in line with these guidelines, as it is able to create buildings that are more efficient, less waste, and environmentally friendly.
However, challenges in adopting 3DCP technology in Indonesia still exist. One of the main challenges is the relatively high initial investment cost of implementing this technology on a large scale. However, the long-term benefits offered by 3DCP technology, such as material efficiency, reduced construction time, and reduced carbon emissions, can have a significant positive impact on the construction industry and the environment. Therefore, collaboration between the government, the private sector, and academia is needed to ensure that this technology can be widely adopted and provide maximum benefits for sustainable development in Indonesia.
In an effort to support the transition to a green economy, Autoconz 3DCP continues to innovate to develop more environmentally friendly and locally-based construction solutions. By utilizing 3D printing mortar which has a high TKDN value, this company not only contributes to reducing carbon emissions in the construction sector but also advances the green economy in Indonesia. Autoconz 3DCP’s success in prioritizing local work and sustainable technology shows that innovation can be a key driver in creating a greener and more sustainable future.