UAUPROJECT: 3D Printing Signals a New Horizon
UAUPROJECT
A multidisciplinary Polish design studio founded by the visionary duo of Justyna Fałdzińska & Miłosz Dąbrowski. They are revolutionising the way we design and produce objects, with an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability every step of the way. Their imaginative creations come to life through 3D printing using plant-based bioplastics like PLA, which are not only reusable but also compostable in industrial facilities. The best part? No additives or support materials are needed.
The world is reaching a tipping point. New consumption patterns are being forged as people “buy less, buy better and buy in different ways” — and designers like UAUPROJECT are part of a new breed of designers encouraging people to consume better, not more.
You might be wondering, what exactly is PLA? It stands for Polylactic acid, a polyester derived from renewable biomass, often sourced from fermented plant starch like corn, cassava, sugarcane, or sugar beet pulp. While there's ongoing debate about the ethics of PLA as a material, it undeniably represents a step in the right direction. However, it's important to note that PLA requires commercial composting facilities for decomposition, taking up to 80 years to break down in the wild. Fortunately, scientists are already exploring ways to recycle PLA filament on a broader scale, considering the entire lifecycle of this material.
Photograph by Przemek Dzienis
In the spirit of progress, we commend UAUPROJECT for their innovative ideas and their challenge to conventional production methods. Their colourful and playful collection of candleholders, light fixtures and vases bring an instant smile to the eye and are all made to order. We love this slower design approach that ensures no dead stock, while allowing for customisations (orders take only 7-14 days).
What truly sets UAUPROJECT apart is their unwavering commitment to carbon-neutral production efficiencies and their ambitious zero-waste targets. Currently, their only waste comes from failed prints, accounting for just 1%. Yet, they're actively working on integrating a recycling space to reutilise all materials. It's worth mentioning that UAUPROJECT is also striving to establish local manufacturing partnerships worldwide, reducing the need for goods to be shipped across the globe.
UAUPROJECT stands as a true trailblazer in sustainability, showcasing the incredible versatility of 3D printing technology. In fact, some of their designs are available for download, allowing anyone to print their own. This leads us to ponder: Could the future see us simply reprinting objects instead of disposing of them at the end of their lifecycle or use?
Website | https://uauproject.com/
Instagram | @uauproject
