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Hannover Messe 2024 wraps up: a focus on sustainable innovation

Chloe Liao, Taipei; Vyra Wu, DIGITIMES Asia 0

Credit: AFP

Hannover Messe 2024 showcased a concerted effort by global industries to navigate challenges posed by globalization and the imperative of achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

In a marked departure from previous editions, which placed emphasis on burgeoning markets such as new energy batteries and automotive solutions, this year's event emerged as a hotbed for sustainable development and low-carbon manufacturing initiatives.

Industry observers noted a keen focus on Industry 4.0 alongside emerging technologies like new energy solutions, 5G, and the ever-expanding realm of artificial intelligence. With tech giants unveiling ambitious plans for robotics development, anticipation ran high over the potential for a resurgence in the robotics sector.

Notably, sustainable energy and zero-carbon initiatives took center stage at Hannover Messe 2024, propelling hydrogen energy exhibitors to the forefront after being relegated to the sidelines in previous years.

Germany, playing host, boasted a formidable lineup of 1,333 exhibitors, including stalwarts like Siemens, Bosch, SAP, and Beckhoff, showcasing their latest innovations in the industrial landscape.

China, with 1,220 exhibitors, emerged as a close second, underscoring its growing influence in the global industrial arena. However, the absence of some leading Chinese enterprises did not go unnoticed, hinting at potential shifts in the competitive landscape.

Aside from the overarching theme of Industry 4.0, Europe's manufacturing focus on sustainable development and artificial intelligence was palpable throughout the event. With rising labor costs and evolving workforce dynamics, companies like Siemens and SAP showcased their strategies for reducing manufacturing dependency on labor through intelligent automation.

Moreover, discussions around sustainable development took center stage, with companies exploring innovative approaches such as carbon tracking systems and zero-carbon production initiatives.

Looking ahead, the notion of a carbon footprint label as a potential weapon in future trade wars looms large, underscoring the growing importance of environmental considerations in global commerce.

Taiwanese manufacturers made a notable presence, with nearly 30 companies showcasing their prowess in industrial components and automation technologies. Delta Electronics, a key player in the automation sector, unveiled cutting-edge solutions for electric vehicle charging and collaborative robotics.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Hannover Messe 2024 emerged as a testament to the resilience and innovation of the global industrial community, setting the stage for a future defined by sustainable, technology-driven growth.