With a focus on sustainability and minimal environmental impacts in nearly every industry, the Makerspace would be remiss to not encourage students to think about how their designs might impact the world both during the manufacturing process and beyond. The Makerspace has partnered with the Office of Sustainability on campus to develop processes and ideas to minimize its environmental impact.

Repair:

Buying new things is costly, both for your wallet and the environment. Repairing electronics can help keep more untapped resources in the Earth and less volatile materials in the landfill. On campus resources include the UIT Service Desk, and the Bobcat Tech Services in the Bookstore. 

Lifecycle Design Considerations:

Before you start manufacturing, ask yourself these questions:

  • What happens to my design when it breaks? Can I repair it?
  • How long do I expect this to last?
  • How do I plan to dispose of it?
  • Are the components able to be reused or recycled?
  • How much and waste am I creating?
  • Can my prototype be cardboard? Paper?
  • Do I need to prototype the entire design all at once or can I split it up to save time and materials?
  • How many different materials are going into the product? Are they toxic?
  • Where are my materials coming from?

Waste Management:

Wood: Clean wood scrap can be composted. There is a specific receptacle for this wood which is sent into the composting waste stream, not to the landfill. 

3D Printing: Most 3D printing in the Makerspace is done using Eco-PLA, a 50/50 PLA/Recycled PLA blend. The spool and packaging is also taken into account, and cardboard or reusable spools instead of plastic are preferred. 

Cardboard and Paper: Paper products are used, then reused if possible. Cardboard is a great option for laser cutting the initial design, low resolution prototypes, and more. Paper is reused to level printers and sketch quick designs and plans. 

Design For Sustainability Graphic:

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More Information:

For more information about sustainability efforst on campus, or how to get involved, check out the Office of Sustainability's website.