Citation:

Nithin Subba Rao, 2025. "Waste Elimination through Digital Twins: A Pilot Framework for SMEs", ESP Journal of Engineering & Technology Advancements  5(4): 40-46.

Abstract:

Digital twin technologies have become rapidly growing elements in businesses' pursuits of operational efficiencies, sustainability, and waste reductions. Digital twins are of interest among Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which often have limited resources and capabilities, and want to adapt their implementation of a digital twin for operational process efficiencies, decision-making improvements, and waste reductions of material inputs and energy. This paper reviews the published literature on the implementation of digital twin frameworks to support SMEs' waste reduction efforts utilizing predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and closed-loop manufacturing systems. Some of the recent study papers, along with an associated research question from the literature review, contribute to a greater understanding of the possible scaling of digital twins as a technological capability and capacity among SMEs that are supporting improved smart city infrastructure and sustainability initiatives. The images illustrate the benefits of digital twins in a range of industries related to sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, food production, and urban waste. In short, the evidence shows that digital twins provide the capability for organizations to progress from a reactive culture in waste management and harmful practices toward a proactive posture and measurable return on investment and value to the environment. This paper presents an initial framework for starting points, project ideas, and considerations for SMEs considering any digital transformation as a vehicle for waste reduction and significant sustainable development.

References:

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Keywords:

Digital Twins, Waste Elimination, Smes, Predictive Analytics.