KARACHI:
Upcycling is a creative and sustainable approach to reduce waste, conserve resources and create new and useable products. Upcycling not only helps to combat climate change but also promotes sustainable living and environmentally conscious consumerism. Upcycling offers numerous benefits for the environment and personal well-being.
With a bit of creativity, almost anything can be upcycled: worn shutters, wood pallets, cardboard packaging, worn and torn clothing, used notebooks, broken glass and more. Upcycling helps minimise the number of discarded materials in landfills and reduces the need for additional production. It saves money by reducing the need to purchase new items and can lead to a more self-sufficient and empowered lifestyle. From a sustainability standpoint, recycling used items helps reduce air and water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions compared to buying a new product. “Any production, even from sustainable brands, harms the environment,” says Emma Seymour.
Upcycling workshops and businesses are emerging providing employment opportunities to a layperson and encouraging entrepreneurship. Schools, community centres and local organisations can educate people on upcycling inspiring them to get involved and contribute to a more sustainable world. The upcycling revolution is more than a trend shifting the mindset from viewing items as disposable to appreciating their potential for a second life. By turning trash into treasure, we not only reduce environmental impact but also foster creativity and employment. Let’s celebrate and support this upcycling revolution as it paves the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
Maham Waris
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 2nd, 2023.
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