This startup sells high quality 3D print filament that is environmentally sustainable, ethically sourced and affordable for consumers. Based in the Netherlands, Reflow is a community-focused company that recycles plastic bottles into 3D print filament.
They also collect the PET bottles from waste pickers in developing countries, multiplying their income 20-fold when the filament is resold in global markets. The plastic is then cleaned and shredded, turned into filament and tested for quality before it's delivered to your door.
25% of their profits are returned to waste-picking communities. Reflow's aim is to improve the daily lives of the 40 million waste pickers found internationally, who often only earn $1.50 a day and live in extreme poverty. The social business also hopes to foster a global socially conscious 3D printing community by doing so.
Ethical Eco Filament
Reflow's 3D Print Filament is Sourced from Impoverished Waste Pickers
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable 3D Printing - Opportunity for companies to develop environmentally friendly and ethically sourced 3D print filament.
2. Community-focused Recycling - Potential for businesses to create community-focused recycling initiatives for various products.
3. Socially Conscious Business - Opportunity to build socially conscious businesses that contribute to improving the daily lives of marginalized communities.
Industry Implications
1. 3D Printing - Potential for disruptive innovation in the 3D printing industry to create sustainable and socially conscious solutions.
2. Recycling - Opportunity for the recycling industry to focus on community engagement and partnerships in order to create positive social and environmental impact.
3. Social Enterprise - Growing potential for social enterprises to address social and environmental issues while maintaining a profitable business model.