In the past few months, we have explored plastic-free living, picnics, and back-to-school initiatives, but what happens next?
The Power of Recycling
Imagine what would happen if we all started recycling and using recycled products. We could divert tons of plastic waste from landfills and incineration.
Recycling plastic, especially polypropylene (PP), offers a huge environmental benefit. For example, studies show that producing plastic from recycled materials reduces carbon emissions by 93% compared to creating new plastic from raw materials.
Sustainable Products from Recycled Plastic
Recycled plastic is no longer limited to single-use products or downcycled materials. The growing awareness of plastic pollution has led to innovative solutions in repurposing waste into sustainable products. Beyond large-scale industrial applications, recycled plastic is being used to create items that we use in our everyday lives. These products demonstrate how waste can be transformed into valuable resources that are both functional and environmentally friendly.
Here are some remarkable products made from recycled plastic:
The toy industry is also adapting to the demand for sustainable products. Green Toys, for example, makes a variety of children's toys, including trucks, kitchen sets, and building blocks, all from 100% recycled plastic, mainly sourced from milk jugs. These toys are safe, durable, and eco-friendly, making them an excellent choice for parents who want to reduce their environmental impact.
At KNOF, we create durable, high-quality products made from 100% recycled plastic. They are suitable for a wide range of uses. Office desks, bookcases, benches, chairs, clocks, office supplies ... These pieces are not only environmentally friendly, they also contribute to a circular economy.
The Preserve brand specializes in creating eco-friendly kitchenware and household products, such as cutting boards, mixing bowls, and toothbrushes. All their products are made from 100% recycled plastic, including yogurt cups and other post-consumer materials, demonstrating the versatility of recycled plastic in everyday items.
Non-Recyclable Plastics and Why
Certain plastics, especially those labeled 3, 6, and 7 (PVC, polystyrene, and polycarbonate), are typically not recyclable. These plastics often contain harmful chemicals, making the recycling process technically challenging and not economically viable. Items like plastic bags, bubble wrap, and takeaway coffee cups also fall into the non-recyclable category due to their lightweight, contaminated, or multi-layered compositions. Using alternative materials also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as plastic production and disposal release significant amounts of carbon dioxide.
You can click the picture to enlarge it and get some examples for each type of plastic.
If you want to read more on the topic, you can visit the Plastic Action Centre website here.
Recycle or Not? Test Your Recycling Knowledge!
Think you know what can and can’t be recycled? Test your knowledge with our quick quiz! For each item, decide if it can be recycled, then check your answers to learn more.
How Did You Do?
Now that you’ve tested your recycling knowledge, try to make small changes in your recycling habits! Remember, when in doubt, check with your local recycling program to find out what’s accepted in your area.
What You Can Do
As individuals and communities, we have the power to demand and support recycled products. By choosing products made from recycled materials, we reduce plastic waste and prevent it from polluting our environment. By taking this simple action, we can make an important contribution to the fight against plastic pollution.
- Support Brands
- Recycle Your Waste
- Spread the Word
The future beyond plastic is not just about reducing usage but also transforming waste into a resource. By making small but impactful changes, together we can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable world.
Let’s embrace this opportunity to lead the way in recycling and sustainability!
The journey doesn't end here
As we close this chapter on plastic waste, it is clear that small changes can make a big difference. We can all play a part in protecting our planet by choosing recycled products, reducing single-use plastics and recycling correctly. The facts speak for themselves: recycling plastics can reduce carbon emissions and products made from recycled materials are now more affordable than ever - from fashion to furniture.
From next month, Udruga Vestigum will be exploring the world of textile waste and fast fashion. They will provide insights into how we can reduce, reuse and recycle our clothes, just as we have done with plastics. From creative recycling ideas to sustainable fashion choices, there is a lot we can learn and do.
So join us on this journey! Let's keep exploring how we can live more sustainably - because it's not just about reducing waste, it's about reimagining what waste can become. Together we can make a difference.
Hi everyone! I am Doroteja, working at KNOF as a project manager and ESC coordinator. I am passionate about learning everything I can about plastic in everyday use and finding solutions to reduce its impact on our environment. I will try to share some practical advice on minimizing plastic use and some pieces of information about plastic for the next 4 journals. I hope you will find them informative and be inspired to implement some of the tips at home.
Doroteja
Author
You can't wait to dive into the topic and meet other people involved?
Here are some local events that you can join this month!
How our Clothing Exchanges Work:
1️⃣ Meet with one of our volunteers.
2️⃣ Bring up to five of your nicest unwanted seasonal clothes to donate, or just come along. Please note: *only clothing*! No children's clothing, underwear, socks, etc.
3️⃣ Choose up to five pieces of clothing for free.
As a part of this project KNOF will be hosting these two workshops this month. The idea is to use plastic waste, transformed by KNOF in their FabLab and to learn to use it through a creative workshop, giving participants an insight into sustainable design. Everyone is welcome to join!
*Times of the workshops will be specified later, make sure you follow KNOF on social media.
Why Do We Organize a Clothing Exchange?
Firstly, it promotes sustainability and reduces waste. By giving your clothes a new life, you contribute to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Secondly, it's a fantastic opportunity to refresh your wardrobe without spending anything! Who doesn't love free shopping?
Join us at our monthly Upcycling Workshop where we will guide you in transforming a piece of clothing into something new and unique like from a t-shirt to a bag, from a towel to face washing pads, from jeans to a cushion and so much more. Feel free to bring along a piece of clothing which you would like to transform or choose from our exchange.
All individuals are welcome to participate, (12+) and no prior sign-up is required. Just bring along your creative spirit as we will dive into upcycling, reusing, reducing, and recycling clothes. Along the way you will receive support from our volunteers.
You were wondering what else we've been up to?
Value of Waste 3rd Study Visit: All about textile
From the 19th until the 22nd of September 2024 we had our third study visit at Udruga Vestigium in Zagreb where we dived into the world and lifecycle of textiles and were inspired to promote sustainable practices in our communities.
The inviting atmosphere encouraged great experiences, meaningful discussions and networking.
We brainstormed ideas for a board game designed for youth and to raise awareness about textile, food and plastic waste.
The dynamic of the group was great, thoughtful and empowering. We managed to learn a lot from each other, through the game „Textile Untangled“ and an up-cycling workshop transforming old into new. We visited a small vintage store learning about innovative approaches in running a business which can also be sustainable.
We left with a shared commitment to cultivate our ideas in our communities that prioritize care for both people and the planet. With the seeds of change planted in our hearts, we are inspired to take these experiences back to our lives.
Monthly Clothing Exchange at Vestigium
Last month, on September 21st, we held our monthly clothing exchange at our association, and it was a resounding success! We welcomed many visitors who actively participated in exchanging clothes and enjoyed the opportunity to give new life to their textiles. The experience of coming together and connecting with like-minded individuals brought joy to both us and our attendees. Thank you for joining us, and we hope to see you at our next exchange!