Upcyclart
A Bottom-Up Approach to Youth Entrepreneurship for Circular Economy
Upcycling is the process of creatively transforming discarded materials into new, valuable products, thereby extending their lifecycle and reducing waste. Unlike recycling, which often breaks materials down into their raw forms, upcycling preserves and enhances the original items, adding artistic and functional value. This practice not only mitigates environmental impact by diverting waste from landfills but also fosters innovation and sustainability.
"Upcycling transforms the ordinary into extraordinary, showcasing the beauty of repurposed materials."
What we do
The Upcyclart project is an international initiative that brings together youth workers, art and environmental organisations to empower young people to explore upcycling as a sustainable business opportunity.
Upcyclart Course for Youth Workers
Free open online course UpcyclArt equips youth workers and teachers to mentor young people in upcycling and starting their own businesses. The course also focuses on supporting young people with fewer opportunities by providing tools to help them overcome various obstacles to self-actualization and create meaningful change. With simple English, subtitles, accessible design, and alternative formats, this self-paced course is inclusive for all.
Design Thinking Camps
Conducting design thinking camps for young people with fewer opportunities. In the camps, young people develop their creative recycling business ideas, test them and learn about environmental impact and good practices around the world. The camps also focus on local community challenges, especially regarding waste management. At the camp, business ideas reach the seed stage.
Youth Upcycling Awards
Youth Upcycling Awards is an opportunity to recognise the young people's ideas, award the most environmentally impactful business ideas and provide financial and business support to make them real.