Upcycling Guide

By Clara Peters
Supervisor: Dr. Gesa Lüdecke

Personal Story

Moving into my new flat was an exciting adventure, but also a window into the vast world of consumption. I was greeted by glossy catalogs of new furniture, modern art pieces, and an endless array of items that promised to turn my empty space into a home. Yet, with every turn of a page, I found myself drawn to the memories of my grandma's hand-me-down wooden cabinet, the worn-out but comfortable rug from my childhood room, and the quirky metal lamp that was a garage sale find.

Rather than being swayed by the allure of the new, I decided to take a different route. With a mix of creativity, paitence, and sometimes sheer will, I began to upcycle and repair. The wooden cabinet was restored and now proudly holds my collection of books. That old rug? It took some cleaning and mending, but now it's the centerpiece of my living room, reminding me of home everytime I see it. The metal lamp got a fresh coat of paint and a new lampshade, turning it into a statement piece.

Each item in my flat now tells a story. Not just mine, but of the many hands and homes they've passed through, making my space uniquely personal and deeply meaningful.

The Dual Benefit of Upcycling

This journey was not just about personal attachment or savig money. The act of upcycling and repairing also became my contribution to a more sustainable world. Every item I refurbished meant one less thing in a landfill, and one less item produced in a factory. It meant a reduction of the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and shipping new items.

Moreover, it opened my eyes to the dual benefits of upcycling. Personally, it allowed me to unleash my creativity, to find beauty in the old, and to add a touch of my personality to everything around me. Environmentall, it was a stand against the unsustainable cycle of fast consumption and disposal. Instead of being a mere consumer, I became an active participant in a circular economy, where items are valued, used, and reused for as long as possible.

Upcycling Guide

In the context of promoting sustainable pratices to others, like upcycling and repairing, the format of a guide/brochure was meticulously chosen. This guide is more than just practical advice; it's a call to action. It urges readers to shift their perspective, recognize the inherent value in seemingly outdated items, and understand the significant environmental and economic benefits of upcycling and repairing.