On November 2nd, as part of the “1st Sustainable Pediaios River Festival… Stream of life” under the leadership of the Office of the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare, KyklOIKOdromio, with support from the Ergastiri Gatapou, organized an upcycling textiles creative workshop at the linear park next to the Skate Park of Lakatamia.
Textile products are an integral part of daily life – in clothing and furniture, medical and protective equipment, buildings, and vehicles. However, urgent action is needed as their environmental impact continues to grow. In the EU, textile consumption has, on average, the fourth largest environmental and climate change impact, following food, housing, and mobility. It is also the third-highest consumption sector in terms of water and land use and the fifth highest in terms of primary raw material use and greenhouse gas emissions.
During the workshop, participants, including individuals with autism from the Pancyprian Association for People with Autism, joined in with enthusiasm and joy to create beautiful fabric mosaics on canvas. Children used their imagination and creativity to craft unique works of art from old fabrics and clothes. This activity highlighted the importance of reusing materials, promoting sustainability and the circular economy.
The reuse of second-hand clothing not only allows for the expression of creativity but also contributes to a more sustainable fashion industry. By reusing and finding new purposes for old clothes, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and foster creativity.
