A week for promoting sustainability and innovative ways to recycle and upcycle waste. That was our “Waste Reimagined” Erasmus+ course in Lucca, Italy!
20 enthusiastic educators from various backgrounds teaching at “CPIA 1 Lucca” came together with a shared mission: to explore how waste materials can be repurposed into creative and impactful works of art.
The course was a dynamic mix of crafting, discussion, and collaboration, with teachers learning skills which they could bring further to their classrooms.
From the very first day, the atmosphere was extremely friendly and engaging. Debates, discussions, sharing knowledge and know-how.
For the practical part, participants were divided into different purposed groups. In the first one, teachers tried to create jewellery using plastic and old buttons. What began as simple waste material was soon transformed into beautiful, unique accessories—proof that trash really can become treasure.
The second group dived into creating artistic collages from newspapers and magazines. By using discarded paper, they managed to make striking and meaningful pieces of art. The participants also explored using cardboard for paintings and repurposing cans and toilet paper rolls into quirky sculptures. Each project has showcased the potential of materials that would otherwise would have been overlooked.
Nevertheless, one of the most exciting activities was crochet using yarn made from old clothes. This creative classic craft helped us see how clothes which are so often thrown away, can be given a second life in the form of beautiful items.
But the course wasn’t just about crafting—it was also about deepening understanding. As part of the program, we discussed the causes of global warming and the devastating effects of fast fashion on our planet. These conversations were eye-opening, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices in both our personal and professional lives.
The course’ collaborative atmosphere was one of the highlights. Teachers shared ideas, tools, and resources, each of them inspired by the notion of not just teaching art but teaching students how to make a positive environmental impact through their creations. By the end of the course, we have not only gained new crafting skills but we have also developed a deeper commitment to integrating sustainability into our teaching.
Check out Education for Sustainable Future if you are interested in a course that tackles sustainability resources and ideas!