Proprietary systems are enabling the direct use of recycled materials in production, supporting the development of circular manufacturing models, says additive manufacturing company Amnova MD Denislav Marinov.

Amnova’s systems are equipped with direct pellet extrusion technology, which allows for virgin and recycled polymer feedstocks to be processed.

“This is a key enabler of circular manufacturing, as it allows waste materials to be reprocessed and directly reintegrated into production,” he adds.

The company is experimenting with a range of recycled polymers, including polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene and polylactic acid (PLA).

“The development of in-house recycling and material processing capabilities is aimed at closing the material loop,” he says, adding that this approach reduces reliance on imported virgin materials while lowering environmental impact and creating opportunities for locally sourced waste streams to be used as industrial inputs.

In addition to material reuse, additive manufacturing inherently supports more efficient production processes, as the technology generates minimal waste and avoids the energy-intensive tooling associated with conventional manufacturing processes.

Marinov adds that energy consumption in additive manufacturing is more predictable, which makes it suitable for integration with renewable-energy sources. Materials, such as PLA, which are bio-based, offer alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, while ongoing research is expanding the availability of recyclable and bio-derived feedstocks.

Localised Manufacturing

Beyond sustainability, Marinov says using recycled and locally sourced materials supports localisation: “Additive manufacturing reduces the need for complex supply chains, as components can be produced on demand using digital design files, limiting dependence on imported inputs.”

This contributes to supply chain resilience, as manufacturers can produce parts as needed instead of maintaining large inventories or waiting for imported components.



Additive manufacturing’s accessibility facilitates entry for a broader range of participants, with reduced capital requirements and infrastructural needs enabling small businesses and entrepreneurs to develop and manufacture products locally.

However, Marinov points out that wider adoption remains constrained by limited awareness of the technology’s capabilities, the cost of advanced systems and a lack of supporting ecosystems, including material supply chains and technical services.

Government support – such as incentives, skills development and industry integration programmes – could address these challenges and help accelerate adoption.