… if they can design and print a case they probably already owned a 3d printer. The amount of plastic used to make the small case is likely just a few grams. Probably around $1 of plastic total.

Yes, the article is pretty light on details since it’s just a rehash of a couple of comments with no actual reporting, but don’t blame the person for designing and printing a neat little case for their hobby. This is a perfectly acceptable way to repair and continue to use some broken electronics.