Keith Greenhow and Omar Dawaba shared how discarded 3D prints can become useful new materials at a national robotics showcase in Edinburgh.
Two University of Kent technical professionals brought Kent’s practical approach to sustainability and innovation to the UK RAS STEPS Special Interest Group Showcase on 10 June 2026.
Keith Greenhow, Technical Specialist, and Omar Dawaba, Technician, presented their work on recycling 3D-printing waste at the National Robotarium in Edinburgh. Their talk highlighted how technical expertise and experimentation can help turn a familiar challenge in prototyping (waste PLA plastic) into an opportunity for reuse.
The project explores ways to shred discarded PLA prints and reform the material into reusable sheets for laser cutting, with the longer-term potential to produce new filament. By sharing their learning with technical professionals from across the UK, Keith and Omar demonstrated how hands-on problem-solving can support more sustainable research and innovation.
Their contribution reflects the University of Kent’s commitment to recognising and enabling the technical professionals whose expertise helps research and innovation move from idea to practical impact. Through the Technical Platform for Innovation and Knowledge Exchange (T‑PIKE), Kent supports the collaboration and exchange of knowledge that can help good ideas grow beyond individual projects.
Omar also received a certificate recognising his nomination for a UK RAS STEPS award. The recognition came during the evening celebration at Dynamic Earth, where awards were presented by Jo Scamp, Technical Manager for Kent’s Technician Commitment, and Arthur Nicholas, NTDC Specialist Advisor, IST Executive Board Member and Vice-President of the University Bioscience Managers’ Association. Jo attended as a UK RAS STEPS advisory board member and representative of the awards judging panel.
The showcase brought technical professionals together to share progress, build connections and celebrate the contribution of technical expertise across robotics and autonomous systems. For Kent, Keith and Omar’s participation put the value of technician-led innovation (and the people behind it) in the spotlight.
Watch: UK RAS STEPS Special Interest Group Showcase 2026 recap video
Read more: About the showcase · The 3D-printing waste recycling project
