Meet the ReCreateIt Gigalab: a sustainable factory that gives plastic waste a new life
A climate-controlled shipping container packed with 3D-printing tools that transforms local plastic into affordable home goods - right where people live and shop.
Giglab: Turning Waste into Solutions
What is a Gigalab?
Think of the Gigalab as a workshop in a box. It’s a standard shipping container that’s been converted into a clean, temperature-controlled workspace. Inside are large 3D printers and the tools needed to take everyday plastic—like broken bins or old bottles—and turn it into sturdy, useful products.
What we make
We focus on useful, long-lasting home goods-think planters, stools, side tables, storage helpers, and simple décor. that creates durable goods that meet their unique needs. Customers can choose ready-made designs that creates durable goods that meet their unique needs. In the case of certain items, users may personalize them using an easy online tool.
What’s inside the box
- Granulator: Shreds plastic items into small pieces.
- Dryer: Pulls moisture out so prints are strong and smooth.
All of this fits inside the climate-controlled container, creating a compact, safe workspace.
- GigabotX 3D printer: Prints directly from ground-up plastic.
Why we built it
Too much plastic ends up in landfills because it’s hard to recycle cost-effectively. The Gigalab makes recycling local and practical: we collect plastic nearby, process it on site, and make items people need. Less trucking, more value, and a clear way for the community to take part.
How It Works
1
Plastic Donations
Community members drop off used or unwanted plastic items-things that would normally be landfilled or incinerated.
2
Sorting & Preparation
Our dedicated team sorts and prepares the plastic for recycling in our on-site Gigalab.
3
Recycling Process
- The granulator shreds the plastics into flakes.
- The dryer prepares them for printing.
- The GigabotX 3D printer then transforms them into new products such as vases, stools, planters and more.
4
Customization Made Easy
Using our interactive Design Tool, ReStore customers can personalize their items-no design or engineering background needed.
5
Tracking Impact
Our system also records sustainability metrics and the environmental impact of our recycling efforts.
6
Real-Time Environmental Monitoring
- Temperature & humidity
- Emissions & particulate matter
- These metrics help us ensure our process stays truly eco-friendly.