Why Upcycle
What does Upcycle mean?
Upcycle means creatively repurposing or transforming existing materials into new, higher-value items without breaking them down entirely, contributing to sustainability and reducing waste.
At Shikku we pride ourselves on using the most sustainable materials, the leather that already exists! That's why all of our bags are crafted from the fashion industry’s unused quality leather.
One of the main benefits of upcycling is that it helps to reduce waste.
Waste Reduction: Upcycling diverts leather materials from landfills, reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal.
Resource Conservation: It conserves valuable resources such as water, energy, and raw materials that would otherwise be used to produce new leather.
Extended Product Lifecycle: Upcycling contributes to the concept of a circular economy by extending the lifespan of leather materials and products.
Upcycling can save money.
Instead of buying new products, upcycling allows us to repurpose materials we already have. That’s money saved on buying new products and helps us to save money on energy bills, as upcycling requires less energy than producing new products from raw materials.
Upcycling is creative, fun and expresses our creativity and individuality.
Upcycling creates unique and personalized items that reflect our personal style, taste and ethics. It’s also be a great way to bond with family and friends, as upcycling can become a group activity.
Upcycling has environmental benefits.
Using existing materials, we reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and prevent pollution. Additionally, upcycling can help to conserve natural resources, such as water and energy, as it requires less energy to repurpose materials than to create new ones from raw materials. Upcycling can also help to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing, as it reduces the need for new raw materials and energy-intensive manufacturing processes
Upcycling means no microplastics.
While there have been innovations in man-made leather (vegan and animal-free leather), most of what's currently commercially available on the market is actually a form of plastic. Even apple leather, pineapple and mushroom leather contain 30-50% plastic binders. In landfill the plastics in these products will take hundreds if not thousands of years to degrade, releasing methane and leaching microplastics in the process.
Upcycling has social benefits.
Creating upcycled products supports local businesses and contributes to local economies while providing employment opportunities in communities with unemployment and poverty. As upcycling producers we also support social causes, raising awareness of environmental and economic issues.
Upcycling is creating a better world to live in.
Upcycling is a sustainable and eco-friendly waste reducing solution with multiple benefits. Reducing waste, conserving natural resources, saving money, and providing a creative outlet for individuals and businesses. Upcycling, makes a difference in communities and contributes to a more sustainable future and is the soul of Shikku style.