Although there is currently no universally established, industry-standard recycling service available to all users of 3D printing, there are promising sustainable options already in existence. This article aims to serve as a comprehensive guide focusing on recycling PLA 3D printing waste in the UK.
The Problem of 3D Printing Waste
3D printing waste is a significant concern. Failed prints and rejected support structures contribute to the accumulation of substantial amounts of waste material.
According to a report by HSSMI, approximately 33% of all 3D prints, on average, end up as waste. This implies a substantial environmental burden. In the United Kingdom alone, it is estimated that around 379,000 kg of plastic waste is generated annually through 3D printing, as highlighted in a recent article published by Filamentive in 2023.
How PLA 3D Printing Waste Recycling Works
PLA 3D printing waste recycling operates through a range of pathways, including closed-loop recycling, upcycling, and downcycling.
In the closed-loop process, discarded PLA prints are collected and typically returned to the filament manufacturer. Here, the waste undergoes meticulous shredding, washing, and extrusion to produce high-quality recycled PLA filament. This filament can be reintroduced into the 3D printing process, closing the loop and reducing the demand for virgin PLA material. It’s important to note that at the time of writing, no UK filament business is currently offering this ‘closed loop’ business model so this is a theoretical resource recovery method.
Alternatively, PLA waste can be upcycled, meaning it is repurposed for new applications of higher value. Through creative thinking and ingenuity, waste materials can find new life as unique products, often at a higher price point versus the original cost of the waste.
Lastly, downcycling offers an avenue for PLA waste to be transformed into input materials for different industries. While this process may not retain the same level of quality as closed-loop recycling or upcycling, it still diverts the waste from landfill and contributes to the circular economy by providing raw materials for alternative markets and processes.
Comparing PLA 3D Print Waste Recycling Companies in the UK
Looking to recycle your PLA 3D printing waste in the UK? Whether you’re a hobbyist, educator, or manufacturer, it’s important to choose a recycling solution that’s effective, affordable, and environmentally responsible. Below is a comparison of leading UK 3D print waste recycling providers—including Filamentive, ReFactory, and 3D Printing Waste (3DPW)—to help you find the right option for sustainable PLA disposal.
|
Feature / Provider |
Filamentive (via 3DPW) |
ReFactory |
3D Printing Waste (3DPW) |
|
Who can recycle? |
All Filamentive customers (with valid PO or invoice) |
Anyone (purchase required) |
Anyone (purchase required) |
|
Accepted material |
Only PLA waste (inc. supports, failed prints, etc.) |
Plant-based plastics Biodegradable plastics |
PLA waste only |
|
Sorting requirement |
Not required |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Cost to customer |
Free (box + collection) |
£76-112 incl. VAT + shipping |
£54-£114 typical box cost. |
|
Weight limit |
30 kg |
Max 20kg per box |
Box limit varies by size |
|
End-of-life processing |
Upcycled, pelletised or recycled by 3DPW |
"Plastics are processed, repurposed and given a second life." |
Recycled, upcycled, or sold as secondary raw material |
|
Box reuse |
Reusable box with zip ties |
Single-use cardboard box |
Reusable box included with order |
|
Collection process |
Free courier collection (UK mainland) |
Must contact to arrange return |
Collection arranged after box is filled |
FREE Recycling of PLA 3D Printing Waste
Filamentive offers existing UK customers FREE PLA 3D printing waste recycling. All existing customers in the UK who have spent a minimum of £500 + VAT on PLA 3D Printer Filament products through our website are eligible for our free recycling box scheme. Our partners 3D Printing Waste (3DPW) will receive your filled recycling box once returned and take care of the entire recycling process, cost-free!
PLA Waste Recycling: Sustainable 3D Printing in the UK
In conclusion, while a universally established, industry-standard recycling service for all 3D printing users is currently lacking, there are encouraging sustainable options available. These options offer a means to effectively reduce plastic waste and improve recycling rates specifically for PLA 3D printing. It’s important to consider various factors, including budget, compatibility (such as companies accepting only their own waste), and convenience in terms of logistics. By exploring the available options and finding the best fit for your specific circumstances, you can actively contribute to reducing plastic waste and promoting responsible recycling practices for PLA waste within the 3D printing community.
Trusted By
University College London
Merlin Entertainments
PrintCity
MMU
University of Leeds
I’m looking to get into 3d printing. Currently only thinking of using pla which am I right in thinking is biodegradable and industrially compostable? Are there any places one could simply take it for composting?
Thanks for your question, Nick. PLA is industrial compostable, though it’s important to note that there is no evidence of biodegradability in soil, home compost or landfill. Please see this article to learn more.
I work at a university, and we own a lot of 3D printers and produce a lot of waste, such as failed parts, purge lines, and support that is currently chucked in a bin. Once the bin fills up, the bin bag gets chucked out. We are very keen on being more sustainable, and I would like to know what kind of services you might offer to collect waste materials such as PLA, ABS, and ASA on a monthly basis or possibly every 2-3 months and what the cost would be like.
Thank you for highlighting your sustainability concerns with 3D printing waste at your university. We’re keen to support eco-friendly initiatives and are pleased to offer a FREE PLA waste recycling service for our customers. While our current program focuses on PLA, we’re exploring ways to include other materials like ABS and ASA in the future.
For existing customers, we’ll arrange PLA waste collection as per your convenience, monthly or every 2-3 months, at no additional cost. This step is part of our commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of 3D printing.
We’re excited to collaborate with your university on this sustainable journey. If not yet a Filamentive customer, please contact us via this form so we can support your sustainable 3D printing endeavours!
I dont know if this has already been asked but is there a recycling service that is secure? I have some 3d printed heads of real people that will at some point need to be destroyed and then recycled/reused.
Hi Lee, Thanks for your comment – really appreciate you raising this. Should you wish to use our recycling service, we’d be happy to support – but confidentially, we would recommend breaking down or shredding the prints beforehand, just to help de-risk this and ensure privacy is protected. Do let us know if you’d like to explore this further.