Abstract
The traditional 3Rs - “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” provide an effective measure to reduce consumption rates of natural resources. This process is however considered as “down-cycling”. The quality of recycled materials degrades over time with waste accumulation. To minimize or even eliminate waste accumulation, a Cradle to Cradle® design framework for 3D-printed products interconnecting five elements – plastic recycling, pre-treatment, extrusion to filaments, 3D printing and users, is hereby proposed. The ultimate goal is to essentially prevent any generation of wastes via healthy, regenerative and cost-effective manufacturing cycles that consider materials as assets. A distributed recycling platform for 3D printed products with an international recycling code system is recommended to help the recirculation of regenerated materials. Utilisation of renewable energy and water stewardship are also suggested to reduce both carbon and water footprints. Finally, a standard certification system for 3D printing filaments is also crucial to improve extrusion and 3D printing processes using shredded recycled plastics.
