The paper, titled “Designing a Sustainable Material for 3D Printing with Spent Coffee Grounds,” co-authored by Scott Hudson, explores the creation of a sustainable 3D printing material derived from spent coffee grounds. Recognizing the environmental impact of traditional 3D printing, which heavily relies on plastics, energy, and wasteful prototyping, the authors explored coffee grounds as a compostable and recyclable alternative. The material’s design prioritizes sustainability throughout its lifecycle, from initial sourcing and composition to usage and end-of-life composting. Notably, it eliminates the high energy costs associated with plastic-based filaments by eliminating the need for heat during printing. It also enables home recycling, allowing the same material to be reused multiple times. The study emphasizes the development of a sustainable Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) model that encourages designing for minimal ecological impact and reducing waste in personal fabrication.
Mr. Hudson’s talk, which explored exponential technological growth, highlighted the importance of forward-thinking approaches to resource use in a rapidly advancing tech landscape. His paper presents a sustainable 3D printing material that embodies the philosophy of innovation coupled with sustainability. As technology advances rapidly, this research aligns with Hudson’s challenge to rethink technology’s environmental impact. By creating a reusable and low-energy material that minimizes waste, the paper offers a model for future technology that aims to advance capabilities while responsibly managing resources.