# Printed Sustainability The construction of new buildings becomes more sustainable with 3D-printing. By [Hayley McGlone](https://www.trendhunter.com/hayley_mcglone), Manager, Client Research & Strategy | Published Oct 3, 2018 | Category: [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/environmental-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/printed-sustainability ## Key Figures - Trend score: 5.3/10 - Evidence articles: 4 ## What is the Printed Sustainability trend? **Printed Sustainability:** While the use of 3D-printing in architecture and construction isn’t new, it's emerging as a leading source of sustainable building materials. These resulting buildings not only have a distinct aesthetic, but also cater to needs around more sustainable construction as well. ## The consumer insight behind the Printed Sustainability trend As consumers continue to become more conscientious about the impact of their individual carbon footprint, they are turning to and more open-minded when it comes to novel technology to help solve the challenges of transitioning to more sustainable living. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 4 featured examples - Articles from: Mar 20 to Aug 18, 2018 - Published: Oct 3, 2018 - Patterns: [Divergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/divergence), [Acceleration](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/acceleration) - Megatrends: [Naturality](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/naturality), [Catalyzation](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/catalyzation), [Artificial Intelligence](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/artificial-intelligence) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Printed Sustainability trend ### Sustainable 3D-printed buildings The use of 3D-printing in building and construction continues to be a leading source of sustainable building materials. ### Hemp biomass utilization The utilization of hemp biomass to create eco-friendly homes offers impressive thermal and acoustic performance for a comfortable living space. ### Non-orthogonal space-saving design The use of non-orthogonal design elements, such as curving panels and flower-like structures, not only adds a unique touch but also promotes natural circulation throughout a home. ## What the Printed Sustainability trend means for industry ### For Sustainable Construction The growth of building materials made from reused, recycled, and renewable resources provides a unique opportunity for businesses to invest in sustainable development. ### For Agriculture and Hemp Technology The use of hemp biomass as a sustainable material for home construction presents new possibilities in the field of hemp technology and agriculture. ### For Architecture and Interior Design The use of non-traditional design elements, such as curving panels and flower-like structures, presents an opportunity for architects and designers to incorporate unique and innovative designs into their work. ## Workshop question How could your brand utilize technology to become more sustainable? ## Trend signals for Printed Sustainability Trend score 5.3 out of 10, from popularity 72%, activity 78%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 72% - Activity: 78% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Printed Sustainability trend 4 featured examples from Mar 20 to Aug 18, 2018. - [Living 3D-Printed Cabins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3dprinted-cabins): This Cabin Was Made Using 4,500 Living Plant Tiles (Category: Eco) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrating 3D printing technology into the construction industry to create sustainable and customizable living spaces. - [Sustainable 3D-Printed Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3dprinted-concrete-houses): The First 3D-Printed Concrete Houses Will Appear in the Netherlands (Category: Eco) Implication: The construction industry can leverage 3D printing technology to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability. - [Flower-Shaped Printed Abodes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lotus-house): WashU's 'Lotus House' Boasts a Sustainable, 3D-Printed Design (Category: Art & Design) Implication: The Lotus House demonstrates a disruptive opportunity for the sustainable construction industry to explore 3D printing technology in order to produce eco-friendly housing. - [3D-Printed Hemp Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hemp-houses): This Collaborative Housing Project from Mirreco and Arcforms is Sustainable (Category: Eco) Implication: The construction industry can utilize sustainable and biomass-based materials to create more eco-friendly buildings while lowering costs. ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Eco - [Jewel-Toned Fall Apparel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/quince-silk) - [Compostable Coffee Pucks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compostable-coffee-pucks) - [Intelligent Private Grids](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ara-core-powers) - [Compact Electric Family MPVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compact-electric-family-mpvs) All articles: [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco)