T4D Sustainable 3D Printing for Peace

Location : Colombia

Problem

Colombia, the second most landmine-affected country after Afghanistan, faces significant challenges due to 50 years of conflict with the FARC. This has resulted in widespread injury, disability, and trauma. Currently, 3 million Colombians live with disabilities, but 90% lack access to assistive devices. Less than 5% of disabled youth receive an education, and 27% of disabled adults have never used the internet. Most disability equipment is imported and unaffordable, with no coverage by health insurance.

Challenge

How to create robust, high-quality devices with limited waste management infrastructure, while fostering businesses that offer environmental (waste management) and social (supporting disabled people, job creation) benefits?

Solution

The project is to develop and implement low-cost and sustainable 3D printed composite assistive devices in local Colombian communities for disabled people, based on plastics and natural fiber wastes.

Impact

• Expands access to affordable assistive devices for people with disabilities through low-cost 3D printing.
• Reduces environmental footprint by integrating recycled materials into device production.
• Generates local employment and builds technical skills, supporting inclusive economic development.
• Ensures long-term impact through a growing open database of assistive devices and strong NGO partnerships.

Team members

• Prof. Véronique Michaud, EPFL Associate Professor, Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites
• Joanne Vaucher, EPFL Research Engineer and project manager
• Nicholas Myers, Omnis Institute (NGO) project coordinator
• Alicia Porras, Universidad de Los Andes Associate Professor‍
• Felipe Betancur, Founder Fundacion Todos Podemos Ayudar