3DPRINTUK: The UK’s First Carbon Neutral 3D Printing Service

The focus on sustainability in 3D printing is increasing. A prominent example is 3DPRINTUK, the company recently achieved its status as the first certified carbon neutral 3D printing service in the UK. This achievement marks a milestone in their previously announced “Road to Net Zero” initiative.

By working with Climate Partner, 3DPRINTUK has gained insight into its own carbon footprint and identified opportunities to reduce it. It has also offset emissions that could not be reduced through the current reduction program.

In numbers, 3DPRINTUK has offset an impressive 448,000 kg of CO2. This was done by supporting two projects: more efficient cook stoves in Uganda and wind energy in De Aar, South Africa. Both initiatives contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and have been reviewed by reputable organizations.

The project in Uganda focuses on replacing conventional and inefficient cookstoves with more efficient models. The aim is to reduce fuel consumption, improve the health of Ugandans and reduce deforestation.

The wind energy project in South Africa utilizes the wind energy potential of the region. The electricity generated there replaces the previous electricity generated from fossil fuels. This project avoids around 433,920 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually and additionally promotes the local economy through job opportunities and better access to healthcare.

Commenting on this significant milestone, 3DPRINTUK CEO Nick Allen says, “We were very serious when we made the announcement about our Road to Net Zero initiative. We set ourselves some important goals as a leading 3D printing service provider, with the full intent to meet them as soon as practicably possible. Offsetting our carbon footprint and achieving certified carbon neutrality is a really great start, and we are proud of this achievement, but it remains just the start. We push on.”