A new research project that could divert hundreds of tonnes of waste from landfill each year has received the support of the City of Greater Geelong.
Geelong council has voted to provide $25,000 in funding to a partnership including Deakin University, the Advanced Fibre Cluster and flooring company Godfrey Hirst to explore whether carpeting manufacturing waste material could be recycled into 3D printing feeder stock.
One of the potential uses of the new product would be 3D printed bollards for the redevelopment of the Baywalk and Barwon Heads bollards.
Godfrey Hirst manufacturing manager Aaron Dawson said the project could be a “practical step forward” for keeping “valuable materials in use for longer”.
“Exploring the potential to transform carpet manufacturing waste into durable, large-scale 3D printed products aligns strongly with our commitment to waste reduction and circular economy principles,” he said.
“We’re proud to collaborate locally in Geelong on a project that could deliver real environmental benefits while creating innovative, long-lasting infrastructure for the community.”
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj said the project “ticks a lot of boxes” for the City.
“It reflects our city’s rich history in manufacturing, it highlights where we are today in advanced manufacturing…it contributes to the circular economy, and potentially reduces waste and landfill while preserving the legacy of our bollards that the community loves,” he said.
“I will be following this research very closely, and I’m optimistic that this will provide exciting opportunities for local industry and create a viable future for the bollards for generations to come.”
