So, in 2013, Dutch designer Dave Hakkens showcased his plastic shredding and molding machines at the Design Academy Eindhoven graduation show. That’s how Precious Plastic started. Of course, it all began with an idea—or maybe even before that, when he was born. Doesn’t really matter. What matters is that, 11 years later, his ideas and the people involved have grown alongside him, spreading all over the globe. Now, we have a setup all around the world where people interested in saving the planet through recycling waste can use their blueprints and videos—anywhere with an internet connection and by anyone. Here’s their explanation: A Big Bang for plastic recycling:
It’s astonishing how simple it can be. They’ve prepared starter kits, so if you feel like starting your own collection point, machine shop, or just want to learn bits and pieces of everything, you can do it with their manual—for free!
On top of that, they’ve built a community. So, if you actually make a product or create material for a product, you can share it and sell it on their Bazar. How cool and supportive is that?
And then there’s the Precious Plastic Academy, where Dave explains, step-by-step, how to transform plastic waste into valuable products. Here’s the first video—he’s a funny guy, this Dave.
Now, they even call themselves One Army. You know, one army working towards a united goal—I really dig that.
SHORTCUT:
WHY?
Don’t be silly, you know why! We’re basically breathing, eating, pooping, and swimming in plastic. This material revolutionized our lives and, at the same time, caused us to stop thinking about our choices, when in fact, they really matter. I’m not here to lecture anyone—my own daily choices aren’t perfect either—but it’s good to know there’s actually an army of positive changemakers offering a solution. If you want to make a colorful kitchen table, or buy a hundred school stools and donate them to a school in need, there’s an option to do double or even triple good. And that counts, doesn’t it? I love deals like that! Do you?
FOR WHOM?
You could be just you, or an engineer with lots of free time, a dad, a mum, an uncle, an aunt, or anyone who wants to change the world—whether it’s a little or a lot. Sounds cool, innit? If I ever open a shop, non-alcoholic bar, or breakfast spot, all the furniture will be made from Precious Plastic—and it’ll be beautiful.
HOW MUCH?
It depends on what you need. You could go all in and buy machines worth thousands, making products worth thousands, or you could just buy a pot or a screwdriver. It’s up to you—live your life as you please!
