Upcycling In Universities: A pilot sustainability education initiative based on a 3D printed upcycling approach

Plastics are an important part of the range of materials used in contemporary society, and almost all aspects of daily life involve plastics in some form. However, they are closely associated with various issues such as environmental pollution and health concerns. To tackle the worsening problems, in addition to implementing more effective waste management methods, the concept of sustainability should be ingrained in everyone's consciousness. This research explored the feasibility of establishing a learning experience for students by organising a small-scale design competition within the Te Herenga Waka / Victoria University of Wellington(THW/VUW) as a case study for creative sustainable practices. A specific focus of the research was on the recycling and upcycling of plastic waste generated, identified, and collected by students who have been exposed to 3D printing technologies.

A principle output of the research was to trial the effectiveness of this approach and provide informed guidelines for expanding this learning experience to other universities with 3D printing facilities.