The Pathway from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0: Enhancing Sustainability Through Emerging Technologies

The term “Industry 5.0” launched by the European Commission complements the Industry 4.0 paradigm and sheds light on research and innovations aimed at sustainable transition, where actions are taken to make the industry more resilient by assigning a central role to the worker. The objective of this chapter is to analyze the evolution of the concept from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0 and seek evidence of the contribution of emerging technologies to sustainability. Methodologically, through a rigorous integrative systematic review, a sample of studies that define and describe Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 will be delineated. Additionally, we utilize bibliographic data mapping using the Vosviewer software and highlight the emerging technologies and their use to improve sustainability aspects and emphasize human well-being. Unlike the purely automated systems of Industry 4.0, Industry 5.0 integrates emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, cloud computing, blockchain, big data, and robotics to augment human capabilities, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly production methods. Hyperconnectivity between products, processes, and workers drives the axis of Industry 4.0. Moreover, we explore the pivotal role of sustainability in driving the adoption of emerging technologies within Industry 5.0. Through an analysis of current trends, this chapter provides insights into how the convergence of sustainability and emerging technologies is reshaping the industrial landscape. By embracing the principles of Industry 5.0 and prioritizing sustainability, businesses can pave the way for a more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable future.