Injection molding is one of the most comon processes in high volume manufacturing. It is extremely efficient and can be a very effective tool for eco-design if combined with appropriate materials and finishes.
Eco-Pro : little material is wasted if trees are minimized and hot runners are implemented, very energy and water efficient.
Eco-Con: Best suited for plastics (although metal injection molding is also done) so be careful that the plastics specified are recycled, recyclable, renewable or biodegradable. Often done in Asia to keep costs down, which can increase carbon footprint if the product is to be sold in other parts of the world.
Question the Premise of the Process: Could the geometry of this part be altered to suit sheet metal? Would that reduce the variety of the materials in the product?
