Upmarket ocean plastics
Plastic is ubiquitous in our lives, from food packaging to electronic devices. However, its poor waste management has led to serious environmental challenges. By adopting a circular economy approach, we aim to transform the perception and utility of plastic waste, turning a problem into a valuable resource.
Turning the tide with upmarket recycling
A project focused on addressing the urgent problem of ocean plastic pollution. Each year, millions of tons of plastic waste flood our oceans, endangering marine life and affecting the global economy. The goal was clear - transforming the way plastic is used by celebrating recycling and sustainable manufacturing practices. Through this processes, we aim to convert ocean plastics into valuable, sustainable products, proving that environmental preservation and economic growth can harmoniously coexist.
The Challenge
Elevating Ocean Plastic
Commissioned by NGOs, our challenge focused on enhancing the value of recycled ocean plastic. We addressed this by integrating the material into high-end products, thereby adding greater value to the supply chain. The premium nature of these products would, in turn, enhance the economic benefits of the initiatives involved in collecting and sorting the plastic.
The Approach
Crafting Value Through Innovation
Our solution was to develop unique, on-demand products that exceeded those made from virgin materials in terms of story, design, and execution. We focused on designing for local manufacturing using 3D printing technology, with both the material development and product design specifically tailored for this method. Our goal was to demonstrate that recycled materials could exceed the quality and aesthetic of traditional plastics, showcasing their potential in high-value applications.
Together with our partners, we established a process that begins with the collection of ocean plastic through local nonprofit organizations. Once collected, the plastic is cleaned, shredded, and then transformed by our collaboration partners. We utilized a patented regeneration process designed to reverse any damage to the plastics, enabling us to match the quality of virgin plastics. This quality standard has been documented and certified.
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After processing, the plastic was extruded into 3D printing filament. Several rounds of iterations were necessary to perfect the formula, which ultimately became compatible with most 3D printing machines. By incorporating masterbatch into the compounding process, we were able to offer multiple color variations.
Although the material properties are similar to virgin plastic and is suitable for various manufacturing processes, we decided that 3D printing, especially in collaboration with print farms, highlights the potential of local, on-demand manufacturing. We are strong believers in the capabilities of 3D printing technology, both as a sustainable production method—with zero waste and minimal logistics—and as a design opportunity that enables the creation of products unachievable through traditional manufacturing methods like injection molding. Our proof-of-concept product, the Shelly lamp, exemplifies this potential. It was specifically designed to be easily printed on a medium scale volume without the need for support material or any post-processing finishing.
The Outcome
Scalable Upcycling Process
The project demonstrated that ocean plastic can be upcycled into high-quality products, establishing new standards for sustainable practices globally for manufacturers, designers, and customers alike. This proof of concept has become a storytelling success for the NGO's and also laid the foundation for scaling this initiative worldwide. Our work will continue as we aim to make these materials and the resulting products accessible to consumers and producers across the globe.
Thanks to everyone involved, we managed to make ocean waste a celebrated object to showcase in the home. A reminder that waste is only waste without the right technology and expertise.
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