The Re.Bag.Re.Use initiative has announced they aim to celebrate and honour the woman behind the initiative this Women's Day, Saturday, 9 August. Six cutters and 15 crocheters are transforming empty bread bags into functional art across South Africa — from Mpumulanga to Hout Bay.
This initiative is not just about reducing waste. It is about restoring dignity, creating purpose and unlocking economic opportunity for women through creativity and community, says the campaign.
During Women's Month, 'Re.Bag.Re.Use' is shining a light on the creativity and resilience of the women behind the initiative. Each product tells a story of beauty, resourcefulness and hope, adds the campaign.
"It is about seeing potential where others see waste. Turning something headed for landfill into something people love and use. That is the magic of 'Re.Bag.Re.Use'; making something out of nothing," says Regine le Roux, Founder of 'Re.Bag.Re.Use.'
Among the team is Maggie Rabbiea Milanzi, a crocheter from Mpumalanga who was taught her craft by her mother. Maggie works as a cleaner in Pretoria. During her daily commutes, she uses her time to crochet products using plastic strips cut by her daughter, Jacquline Morake, says the organisation.
"I love being able to use my creativity to earn a little extra for my family," says Milzani. "The money helps with groceries and baby essentials. I am proud to be part of Re.Bag.Re.Use," adds Morake.
Their story is one of many. With the support of Blue Ribbon, the 'Re.Bag.Re.Use' team has repurposed more than 14 800 Blue Ribbon bread bags in the past year. That amounts to roughly 104 kilograms. Since the project began in April 2020, they have saved more than 144 000 bags from landfill, says the campaign.
"This partnership reflects our commitment to sustainability and community development," says Stephanie Hoy, Marketing Executive for Bakeries at Premier FMCG. "It is about helping families create brighter futures through creative, practical solutions."
"Our bread bags are 100% recyclable. But we love seeing them upcycled before they even reach a recycling facility," adds Hoy. "This is sustainability with purpose."
Consumers can support the project by purchasing a 'Re.Bag.Re.Use' product — the campaign believes that when women thrive, communities grow stronger, concludes the campaign.
For more information, visit www.rebagreuse.com/blueribbon. You can also follow 'Re.Bag.Re.Use' on Facebook, or on Instagram.
*Image courtest of contributor