BlueCycle – beyond marine plastic waste is a Blue and Circular Economy program. It was created with the aim of utilising plastics resulting from fishing and maritime activity. Initially, the aim is to create a high-quality raw material, suitable for reintegration into the industry. Thus, it contributes to promoting a holistic approach to addressing the problem of plastic waste ending up in the sea.
The story
Initially, the story of BluCycle begins in 2017, with Second Nature, an initiative of the Aikaterini Laskaridis Foundation in collaboration with the architectural duo The New Raw . Therefore, the Foundation undertook the production of the documentary Second Nature, which was realized by the Oscar-nominated filmmaker Daphne Matziaraki.
Above all, the ambition was to raise public awareness of the problem of abandoned nets found at sea, as well as to understand the potential for their utilization through the use of new technologies.
Starting from the film, the idea was born to create a comprehensive program that would utilize the plastic waste generated by fishing and shipping activities.
As a result, the BlueCycle program operates under the auspices of the Aikaterini Laskaridis Foundation.
BlueCycle Lab – beyond marine plastic waste
Undoubtedly, a model center with all the necessary equipment for the utilization of marine plastic waste, creation and research.
It is worth noting that it is the first place in Greece for the processing and recycling of plastic equipment from fishing and shipping activities. The headquarters of this innovation is Piraeus!
Operation
- Processing of marine plastic waste through a certified process. Converting it into pellets, ready for repurposing in industry, or into filament for 3D printing.
- Research on the sustainability of materials and new uses.
- Design and development of products, services and/or artistic works made from marine plastics from fishing and shipping activities.
- Quality control of the products produced.
In addition, the space is open to researchers, designers, manufacturers and artists to work and experiment on the process of recycling and reusing plastics, in order to proceed with their own creations.
The future of sustainable furniture
Responding to the alarming reality of increasing plastic waste, BlueCycle launches its Second Nature furniture line, demonstrating how digital design and manufacturing technology can help tackle marine plastic pollution.
BlueCycle designers draw inspiration from the marine environment. First of all, they redefine and redesign the life cycle of plastic objects used in fishing and shipping. Therefore, they digitally manufacture all their products from recycled marine plastics, using robotic 3D printing. Finally, through the distribution of these objects, the BlueCycle team aspires to provide a sustainable business case, combining new production models with recycling.
More information on the initiative’s website at http://www.bluecycle.com.
