Material is an important topic in design ever since. So why do we still waste so much of it?
Especially non recyclable plastic should make us reconsider our choices.
Julia Linnig tackled this challenge by focusing on a specific industrial waste stream, developing an innovative new material.
Local Recycling of Industrial Waste
In her bachelor’s thesis, Julia Linnig addresses the urgent issue of industrial waste, focusing on the recycling of ‚flex foil‘ an inexhaustible source of waste resulting from inefficient processing techniques in digital textile printing, where 80% of the material becomes offcuts. Her research aims to create high-quality materials from these local waste streams, challenging the limitations of current recycling practices. The project explores how discarded plastic can be repurposed sustainably without the need of any additives.
Terrazzoflex: An Innovative Material
The core outcome of Julia's thesis is terrazzoflex, a new recycled material made entirely from flex foil waste. Inspired by the aesthetic of terrazzo, terrazzoflex is both versatile and visually appealing, showcasing the potential to turn industrial leftovers into valuable resources. Through a series of tests, Julia refined the material's properties, pushing the boundaries of its functionality and design possibilities.
ONE BAG: Sustainable Design in Practice
To showcase terrazzoflex, Julia created ONE BAG, a collection of eco-friendly backpacks and accessories. These products are designed to be durable, water-resistant, and visually striking. With a focus on functionality and sustainability, ONE BAG shows how waste materials can be given a new life, contributing to a more circular and responsible approach to design.