Fifth Industrial Revolution

The Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) or Industry 5.0 is an already established term introduced by Michael Rada as the next development stage after the ongoing failing fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The earliest definition of Industry 5.0 was introduced on December 1, 2015 with a main focus on industrial sustainability and waste-prevention. Later definitions of Industry 5.0 involved the possible customization of manufacturing processes, production-on-demand, and human-AI collaboration. While there is no widely agreed-upon definition or framework for the concept, Industry 5.0 generally refers to a future state of the industry where advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, quantum computing, generative AI, and the internet of things; are designed and employed to augment and amplify human creativity and innovation.[1][2]

This vision of the future entails machines and technology working in tandem with humans, enabling a new level of collaboration and innovation[3] and prioritizing the development of new solutions that combine the best of human and machine capabilities—solving complex problems and driving progress in various fields by combining the strengths of human and machine functionalities. [4][5][6]

In the context of the Fifth Industrial Revolution, prioritising societal wellbeing requires a fundamental emphasis on values such as fairness, honesty and mutual trust, as well as living together in peace and promoting a comfortable and fulfilling life free from stress, anxiety and violence.[7]

In 2020, the European Commission proposed a definition of Industry 5.0 on the basis of sustainable, worker-centered industry that allowed for human-robot and human-AI interaction.[8] This definition complements the Industry 4.0 approach, putting research and innovation at the service of the transition to a sustainable, human-centric, and resilient industry. Furthermore, the emphasis would shift from solely pursuing industry goals of efficiency and productivity to recognizing and maximizing the role and contribution of industry to society as a whole, mostly in line with the original definition from 2015. [1] [9][10]

On September 1, 2021, Industry 5.0, the world's first waste prevention framework and legislation, was launched simultaneously in 65 countries. On September 1, 2022, the Industry 5.0 Strategic Alliance began its operations.