Funded by the Swedish government through the Challenge Fund, the Challenge2Change project, implemented by SERDA and EDA, began in December 2024. This initiative enabled significant advancements in research, development, and prototype production. Equipment, including 3D printers, a grinding mill, and a 3Devo extruder, was acquired, and personnel received specialized training to operate these technologies. The focus shifted toward processing 100 kg of collected plastic waste into high-quality xPET filament, a flagship product designed for 3D printing applications.

In the first week of December 2024, four workshops were conducted, engaging participants in 3D design, drone applications for ecological monitoring, and environmental awareness. These sessions, held in Brčko District, educated youth on recycling processes and the potential of 3D printing, fostering skills and eco-consciousness. Participants actively contributed by cutting and sorting PET bottles, receiving 3D-printed figurines as rewards, reinforcing the project’s educational and environmental goals.

The Challenge2Change project strengthened local capacity for sustainable production. By leveraging advanced recycling and manufacturing technologies, the initiative aligned with Industry 4.0 principles, such as smart manufacturing and data-driven optimization. Simultaneously, it embodied Industry 5.0’s focus on sustainability and human-centric outcomes, creating a model for eco-friendly innovation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.