Sun Powered Plastic Recycling

Distributed Design emerges from this transformation as a powerful framework that connects people, technologies, and production in an ecosystemic way. However, true democratization of design requires us to fundamentally rethink our relationship with materials – particularly how we source them and what we consider valuable.

The world of design is witnessing a profound shift toward biomaterials and circular thinking, yet we still face the reality of existing waste streams. Rather than viewing this as a defeat, we want to come up with ways of turning waste into valuable, freely available products/designs for community-driven innovation and appropriation.

Our 2024 "Sun Powered Plastic Recycling Open Call" explored two distinct pathways: designing products for this technology and expanding the capabilities of the machine system itself. For 2025, we're taking a more focused approach that emphasizes the real-world impact of these solutions.

These product collections should:

• Clearly illustrate the opportunities and value created within their intended context
• Extend beyond Sun Factory's inherent alignment with Distributed Design values
• Demonstrate creative approaches to contextual implementation
• Address real community needs and challenges

1. Contextual Relevance and Impact
• Clear demonstration of understanding the chosen context
• Potential for meaningful impact within the community
• Feasibility of implementation

2. Design Innovation
• Creative use of Sun Factory technology
• Integration with Distributed Design values
• Technical viability and reproducibility

3. Sustainability and Scalability
• Environmental impact considerations
• Potential for adoption in similar contexts
• Long-term viability

• Abstract (max 1000 words)
• Product Collection Proposal
• Team Information (3-5 members)

Timeline:
• Open Call Launch: January 7, 2025
• Submission Deadline: January 24, 2025
• Project Selection: February 3, 2025
• Development Period: February 10 – 26, 2025
• Final Presentation: February 28, 2025


Apply Here >>

• Technical support from Fablab Benfica
• Access to Sun Factory equipment
• Materials and resources
• Documentation support
• Opportunity to present at Distributed Design events

Fablab Benfica is a digital fabrication laboratory at ESELx-IPL focused on education. We explore the intersection of technology, design, and sustainability through hands-on learning and community engagement. Our lab serves as a hub for educators, designers, and makers, fostering projects that combine digital fabrication with environmental awareness.

The Distributed Design Platform promotes and supports creators, makers, and designers who embrace open, sustainable, and collaborative practices. By connecting a network of cultural institutions, fab labs, and creative hubs across Europe, we champion a new model of design and production that is local, sustainable, and accessible. With 18 members in 15 countries, our platform facilitates knowledge sharing, collaborative projects, and the distribution of designs that can be locally produced anywhere in the world.

Sun Factory, an Antenna Foundation initiative, empowers communities with solar-powered low-tech solutions for essential needs. From solar dryers to water pumps, it supports local ecosystems and job creation. The project's open-source approach to plastic recycling technology exemplifies sustainable, community-driven innovation. Discover more on the Sun Factory hub.

Antenna Foundation develops innovative, low-tech solutions to address essential needs like education, food, health, water, and digital access. Working closely with local communities, it focuses on open science, low-tech, and commons-based approaches. Learn more at antenna.ch.