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Description
Kristalna Ideja ltd. was established in 2013 with the main purpose of identifying, researching and developing solutions that significantly contribute to the quality of life by reducing environmental pollutants. The primary focus is analysing, supervising, and acting on air pollution threats. In 2018 the company developed innovative modular iTherapy® interior air purification technology which became our base for existing products. Encouraged by success, in 2021, the company started to develop technology for ambient air purification to achieve full air management cycle control. The next step for the company is to implement green technology into production and business management.
Currently the company is using plastic casing from abroad for its air purifiers. The intention is to transfer casing production system into company’s premises and switch to bio-based 3D printed design to minimize waste and increase production efficiency. By implementing this project, air purifiers will not only purify air, but will be able to be recycled, reused, and redesigned – minimizing waste.
Investment in 3D printing equipment will lead to implementation of new technologies and will increase the competitiveness of the company. It will also differentiate and expand company’s product portfolio on the market, which will lead to increased revenue and profit for the company. It is expected that the implementation of the new 3D printing system will contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and since the implementation of the project is expected to increase the volume of work, it is planned to employ more people.
Summary of project results
One of the primary challenges was the high cost of production of plastic casing for air purifiers that the Promoter produces. The cost was largely driven by the reliance on foreign suppliers for raw materials and components. This dependency not only increased expenses due to fluctuating exchange rates and import tariffs but also introduced risks associated with supply chain disruptions. By reducing reliance on imported materials, the project sought to lower costs and enhance production efficiency. Another significant challenge was the extensive use of traditional plastic materials in manufacturing. These plastics, often derived from non-renewable petrochemicals, contribute to environmental degradation and long-term waste management issues. The project aimed to reduce the use of these materials by shifting to bio-based alternatives that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable. The manufacturing processes used were associated with a substantial carbon footprint, resulting from both the materials used and the energy-intensive nature of traditional production methods. Addressing this issue was critical to reducing the environmental impact of the production process. The project focused on adopting more sustainable practices, including just in time production with 3D printing technology with faster and more efficient prototyping. By shifting to these innovative methods, the project aimed to offer unique selling points that could attract environmentally conscious consumers and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
The Promoter developed a prototype of bio-based casing for air purifiers using 3D printing technology, creating a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic casings. This included designing new casings, testing their functionality, and ensuring they could be reused or recycled, thereby minimizing waste.
Transitioned to bio-based materials for manufacturing, focusing on using biodegradable and recyclable materials like PLA, which helped reduce the company''s carbon footprint and environmental impact.
Enhanced production capabilities by developing in-house 3D printing for casings, reducing dependency on external suppliers, lowering production costs, and enabling rapid customization and innovation in product design. Introduced new recycling and reuse processes to create a circular economy model within the company, allowing used casings to be repurposed into new products, thereby extending their lifecycle and reducing waste.
Engaged in continuous R&D efforts to innovate air purification technology, focusing on environmentally friendly solutions and improving product effectiveness to capture pollutants.
Implemented employee training programs to build internal expertise in 3D printing technology, ensuring that the workforce was well-equipped to support the company''s transition to more eco-friendly production methods.
Promoted the new company''s solution through web, videos and brochures.
For the Company: Achieving a reduction in CO2 emissions. Expecting growth in net operational profit and turnover. Expanded product portfolio and enhanced market competitiveness by transitioning to sustainable production methods.
For Employees: Enhanced the knowledge and experience with 3D technology, created new job opportunities, expecting to hire at least 13 new employees in the next 5 years.
For the Environment: Promoted sustainability by reducing plastic use, minimizing waste, and lowering the carbon footprint through bio-based filaments and 3D printing technology.
For Customers (Residential and Commercial Sectors): Provided innovative air quality product that minimizes plastic, reduce carbon footprint and eliminates pollutants that harm environment and customers health.