'print your city' initiative sees 3D-printed plastic bags become urban furniture

rotterdam based research and design studio, ‘the new raw’, has introduced a new initiative called ‘print your city!’ that utilizes 3D printing to transform plastic waste into urban furniture. the first outcome of the project takes the form of the ‘XXX bench’, a furniture piece designed for amsterdam which generates a new use for recycled plastic bags.

all images © the new raw

the ‘XXX bench’ seats two to four people and takes the form of a double-sided rocking chair, designed by the new raw to act as a statement on working together to close the cycle for plastic. users have to find equilibrium together, or use their energy to rock each other. each ‘XXX bench’ can be easily customized in terms of shape or function, and can also integrate messages or logos.

the ‘XXX bench’ seats two to four people and takes the form of a double-sided rocking chair

the production process utilizes recycled plastic pellets from municipal plastic waste or flakes from grinded recycled products. weighing 50 kg (about 110 pounds) and measuring 150 cm long (approx. 60 inches) and 80 cm wide (approx. 31 inches), the piece is 100% recyclable and was produced in collaboration with aectual, on a large scale pellet extrusion 3D printer. the process ensures a short material cycle, wherein constant urban plastic waste streams can ensure a steady flow of material for the city’s evolving needs.

each unit weights 50 kg (110 pounds) and measures 150 cm long and 80 cm wide

the project raises awareness towards the throwaway lifestyle of contemporary cities, which has exponentially increased the production of plastic waste. in amsterdam alone, residents generate an average of 23 kg of plastic waste per person, annually. that’s enough waste to 3D print one bench for every two amsterdammers, per year.

plastic waste for amsterdam residents is enough waste to print one bench for every two amsterdammers per year