Industry 5.0: a human-centric and sustainable paradigm in industrial evolution

Abstract

Industry 5.0 has emerged as a conceptual evolution of the technology-centric Industry 4.0 framework, signifying a heightened imperative to integrate human-centric design principles, environmental stewardship, and systemic robustness into the trajectory of industrial advancement. Contemporary research, in contrast to a singular emphasis on efficiency and automation, increasingly prioritizes the wider social and ecological ramifications of technological advancement. The present paper provides a literature-based synthesis built mainly on three recent academic studies that analyse the evolution and current research structure of the Industry 5.0 concept. This analysis is based solely on existing literature, focusing on the main themes that currently shape academic discussions. It particularly emphasizes the creation of human value, the responsible use of resources, and the ability of industrial systems to adapt, while also recognizing the ongoing importance of advanced digital technologies. A comparative approach is used to clarify the differences in goals, scope, and strategic direction between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0. The growing academic interest suggests that Industry 5.0 represents a shift towards industrial transformation focused on value creation. This requires more research, both in theory and practice.