Recycled Materials
Teams are encouraged to use recycled materials in their machines. Recycled materials are items previously used for other purposes. New materials are purchased or donated in new condition. Using recycled items promotes sustainability, creativity, and resourcefulness.
Determining the Cost of Materials:
- Recycled or Repurposed Materials: Teams should maximize the use of recycled or repurposed items from homes, schools, or communities, which are recorded as zero cost if sourced for free.
- Purchased and Donated Materials: Use the actual cost of purchased items, the purchase price of second-hand items, and the fair market value of donated materials that are new.
Assessing the Percentage of Recycled Materials: Evaluate the entire machine and assess the proportion of recycled versus new materials. Maximize the use of recycled items over new ones.
Using recycled materials benefits the environment and fosters innovative thinking and problem-solving, which are essential engineering skills.