<p>Additive Manufacturing (AM) has several important attributes including material efficiency, flexibility, and design freedom that justify its consideration as a more sustainable, resource-efficient production technology . Despite the growing body of literature on AM, there remains a lack of comprehensive reviews that strategically integrate environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability within AM practices. This critical review addresses this gap by examining the strategic sustainability components of AM, focusing on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies, the role of Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) in resource efficiency, advancements in sustainable materials, and waste minimization strategies. Further, the integration of AM with green energy systems and its contributions to sustainable energy storage and generation are analyzed. The paper also examines operational challenges and opportunities in the AM industry, including energy-intensive processes, scalability, and material limitations, and highlights technological advancements aimed at mitigating these issues. Finally, an operational framework for sustainable AM is proposed, encompassing innovations in information technology (IT), supply chain management, and lifecycle optimization. This comprehensive approach not only reinforces AM’s role in advancing sustainability but also provides actionable insights for academia, industry, and policymakers. By synthesizing these elements, this review highlights AM’s pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable manufacturing.</p>