According to a VOA report, Taiwan is taking a creative approach to sustainable fashion by organizing workshops that transform plastic waste into new products—including eyewear—in just a few hours.
A company called Miniwiz, a leader in Taiwan’s upcycling industry, launched a workshop called Trash Kitchen to offer customers a hands-on recycling experience. Participants bring plastic waste from home, such as bottle caps, food containers, plastic cutlery, and toys, and within two hours, these materials are melted and turned into new eyeglasses.
Turning Trash into Value
Arthur Huang, the founder of Miniwiz, emphasized that Trash Kitchen aims to demonstrate that upcycling and recycling can be done quickly, effectively, and without causing further pollution. Beyond eyewear, Miniwiz also produces wheels, bricks, hangers, and everyday items from plastic and organic waste using its proprietary machine, miniTrashpresso, developed in 2017.
Cora Hsieh, the Editor-in-Chief of Harper’s Bazaar Taiwan, praised the eyewear upcycling initiative, stating that while the journey toward sustainable fashion is long, it is crucial for consumers to engage in these experiences firsthand.
A Step Toward Waste Reduction
Workshop participants shared that the event inspired them to think twice before creating waste and to be more mindful about reusing and repurposing materials.
According to Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment, the country generated a record 11.58 million tons of waste in 2013, with 6.27 million tons being recycled. Initiatives like Trash Kitchen play a key role in encouraging consumers to embrace sustainable practices and reduce plastic waste. ♻️🌱
