trend:
Disruptive Uses of Blue Resources
team:
Matteo Peluso, CEO & CTO Serena Lotto, COO Michela De Siati, CFO Giuseppe Greco, CMO
Typically considered waste, mussel shells can become a source of environmental pollution with negative consequences on water quality and surrounding biodiversity.
Wast3D Shells is able to extract calcium carbonate (CaCO3) from such waste that is currently not recyclable. The extracted micronised powder will be used to produce materials for 3D printers.
meet the startup
Wast3d Shells is the brainchild of four young talents from Taranto to turn a local problem into an innovative solution. The idea of exploiting mussel shells, a by-product of the fishing industry in the Taranto area that is often undervalued and inadequately disposed of, is the driving force behind the creation of a solution that turns this waste into a quality asset.
FROM WASTE TO VALUE
Every year the city of Taranto produces thousands of tonnes of waste from fishing activities, which is not recycled to any extent, ending up directly in incinerators. Wast3D Shells uses an innovative approach to transform mussel shells into a valuable resource by extracting calcium carbonate (CaCO3).
Shells contain a remarkably high percentage of this compound, which makes them an alternative and sustainable source. This high-quality calcium carbonate powder is then used to produce 3D printing materials that open up new opportunities in the field of additive manufacturing.
IMPACT
Not only does converting waste into useful resources significantly reduce the volume of waste going to incinerators, but it also brings about tangible benefits to the environment and the local community.
The innovative approach of W3DS aims to promote a more responsible use of natural resources. By exploiting mussel shells as an alternative source of calcium carbonate, the start-up aims to reduce reliance on traditional quarrying and mitigate the resulting environmental impacts. Quarrying from limestone often results in soil degradation and the destruction of natural habitats. By using mussel shells, W3DS offers an innovative waste management solution and a way to preserve the ecological balance and promote environmental sustainability.
FAROS AND BEYOND
Faros turned out to be a key partner in the development of the start-up. Thanks to the support of CDP and the networking with key players in the Blue Economy sector, W3DS was able to address major challenges related to product certification and plant validation.
The acceleration pathway not only contributed to the development of the start-up, but also strengthened the unity of the team, creating common ground while generating empowerment and growth.
