Understanding Sustainability Practices and Challenges in Making and Prototyping

Abstract

Democratization of prototyping technologies like 3D printers and laser cutters has led to more rapid prototyping practices for the reasons of research, product development and individual interests. While prototyping is becoming a much easier and faster process, there are many sustainability implications neglected. To investigate the current sustainability landscape within the realm of making, we conducted a comprehensive semi-structured interview study involving 15 participants, encompassing researchers, makerspace managers, entrepreneurs, and casual makers. In this paper, we present the findings from this study, shedding light on the challenges, knowledge gaps, motivations, and opportunities that influence sustainable making practices. We discuss potential future paradigms of HCI research to help resolve sustainability challenges in the maker community.