Manufacturing and industry

The manufacturing sector is central to the global effort to achieve net zero. Led by Professors Nicholas Willoughby and Susana Garcia Lopez, this theme focuses on digitally mapping manufacturing processes to develop universally applicable solutions for enhancing sustainability across various sectors.

By collaborating with industry, the research aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of manufacturing processes, from reducing energy consumption to minimising waste. Particular attention is given to industries like brewing and distilling, where circular approaches can significantly reduce environmental impact.

Through the integration of digital technologies and circular principles, this theme aims to revolutionise how goods are produced, helping to decarbonise one of the most critical sectors of the global economy.

The Global Research Institute for Net Zero (iNetZ+) at Heriot-Watt University plays a pivotal role in fostering interdisciplinary research that addresses the most pressing environmental and societal challenges of our time. Through its innovative research themes, iNetZ+ encourages collaboration across our school-based institutes, integrating expertise from engineering, social sciences, and the natural sciences. This collaborative approach is further strengthened by partnerships with other global research institutes at Heriot-Watt, ensuring that our collective efforts push the boundaries of sustainable solutions for a net-zero future.