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Project results

Activities


Activity number 7

 

Name of the activity

Upcycling Entrepreneur Challenge

 

Introduction of the topic

In this activity, learners will explore entrepreneurship through the lens of upcycling. They will learn about the principles of upcycling and how it can be a creative and profitable business opportunity. Learners will understand the importance of managing waste production efficiently and reducing their environmental impact while increasing profitability.

 

Learning objectives

  • Understand the principles of upcycling and how it differs from recycling.
  • Analyse different scenarios to identify upcycling opportunities and create sustainable products.
  • Develop a business plan for an upcycling venture, considering financial management and marketing strategies.

 

Materials

  • Various recycled materials (e.g. plastic bottles, cardboard boxes, old fabric)
  • Business Model Canvas template

 

Grouping and interaction

Teams

 

Description of the activity

1. Introduction and Upcycling Principles:

The teacher will introduce learners to the concept of upcycling and explain how it differs from recycling. They will also provide examples of successful upcycling ventures to inspire learners.

 

2. Upcycling Entrepreneur Challenge:

Learners will work in teams to brainstorm and develop ideas for an upcycling business. They will use the Business Model Canvas template to outline their business plan, considering key elements such as target market, value proposition, revenue streams, and cost structure.

 

3. Market Research and Customer Analysis:

Each team will conduct market research to identify their target customers and understand their preferences and needs. They will also analyse potential competitors and explore market opportunities for their upcycled products.

 

4. Financial Management and Sustainability:

Learners will analyse the financial aspects of their upcycling venture, including start-up costs, pricing strategies, and revenue projections. They will also consider the environmental and social sustainability of their business model.

 

5. Presentation and Feedback:

Each team will present their upcycling business plan to the class, explaining their ideas and strategies. The class will provide feedback and constructive suggestions to help improve the business plans.

 

6. Conclusion and Reflection:

The activity will conclude with a reflection session where learners will discuss the challenges and benefits of upcycling entrepreneurship. They will also reflect on the potential impact of their business on waste reduction and environmental sustainability.

 

Use of the device you created - sustainability of the artefact

The upcycling business ventures developed by learners can be implemented as part of a school or community-based initiative. Learners can form partnerships with local businesses or organisations to collect waste materials and implement their upcycling ideas. The upcycled products can be sold at community events or online platforms, and the revenue generated can be used to reinvest in the business or support environmental causes.

 

Extra activities

  1. Upcycling Market Day: Organise a market day at the school or a local community centre where learners can showcase and sell their upcycled products to the public. This event can be a great opportunity to promote upcycling and raise awareness about the importance of waste reduction.
  2. Sustainability Awareness Campaign: Develop a sustainability awareness campaign around upcycling and waste reduction. Learners can create posters, videos, or social media campaigns to educate the community about the environmental benefits of upcycling.

Resource:

The importance of green entrepreneurship

https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/sites/d286f12e-en/index.html?itemId=/content/component/d286f12e-en 

What is green entrepreneurship and why is it important?

https://eudi.eu/what-is-green-entrepreneurship-and-why-is-it-important



"The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein"

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