With Terra we embraced the upcycling strategy

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Putting into practice its premises focusing on the future of ecology, this edition took a step towards promoting the optimisation of resources by implementing an upcycling strategy for two pieces that characterise our festival: the tote bags and the accessories identifying the exhibitions assistants.

First, we launched a call to collect tote bags that were not in use, extending this appeal to institutions such as the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Lisbon, which donated 40 units. We also took advantage of fabric bags from previous Triennale’s initiatives and gave them a second life by creating an original collection to offer the participants of the sixth edition. All we had to do was cut the original straps and customise them with a sturdy green ribbon with Terra's identity.

To create the team's identifying clothing accessory, we invited designer Jorge Moita from Kry Kurva and the solidarity association AGIR XXI to design a waistcoat instead of the classic t-shirts. As a way to further reduce waste, we recovered the straps cut from the old bags to weave a net pattern inspired by the protection grids common on construction sites.

In the words of the designer "The most interesting thing about this invitation was the total freedom to make the surplus material from the bags of previous editions part of the co-creation of something new with the Agir XXI team." The result is not only environmentally friendly, but is also born out of support for a local initiative that promotes the integration of the women who are part of this association's social project.

On the other hand, the main objective of these waistcoats has been fulfilled: to identify and bring participants and the general public closer to the assistants at events and exhibitions. Proof of the enthusiasm with which both concept and design were received is the way in which the whole team adapted them to different uses and situations. Their strong identity suits everybody and we were pleased to see how much they were appreciated both by those who wear them and those who visit us.

The use of these pieces does not stop here, as they will continue to be used by the team that welcomes events at the Sinel de Cordes Palace. We will also repeat the process with the redesign of the clothing that identifies the Open House volunteers. The upcycling strategy has multiple benefits, including reducing the carbon footprint associated with new production, minimising surplus stock and supporting local initiatives, combining environmental and social benefits.