The Upcycle Exhibit

The Problem:

We have a huge consumption problem. We extract resources at a rate so fast that they don't replenish in time, which means the products we use today might not be here tomorrow. The rapid consumption of resources also means that we produce a lot of waste, which clogs our planet's oceans and land. What can you do to help solve this problem?

The Solution:

Upcycling, or creative re-use, helps keep used products out of the landfill by giving them a second chance. Host a DIY contest to encourage your community to get into the habit of upcycling and save the planet while they're at it!

The Method:

1. Find a group of participants, whether it's your school, workplace, art club, neighbourhood or at an event. Make sure the people involved are likely to enjoy working with their hands
2. Involve the event-managers and heads of the club, workplace or school, so they can help you set up the event 
3. Announce the contest early so that your participants have enough time to figure out what to make and actually make it
4. Provide craft supplies if it's at a school or workplace. Basic craft supplies are pretty inexpensive and you can always borrow them from your local art club.
5. Announce the winners: Involve art teachers, craftspeople, designers and DIY enthusiasts in your jury so you have a trained eye judging the creations
6. Set up an exhibition or display area for all the winning creations, and if you can, include the other creations too so the creators are encouraged to upcycle more
7. Keep going! Try auctioning the best pieces and donating the proceeds to environmental causes or make permanent art installations in barren space. The sky's the limit and the whole event is about creativity after all!

Once you're done with the event, be sure to thank the participants and send us as many pictures and details of the event at ecocloubunitedmail@gmail.com so we can feature it and know about all the good work you're doing!