RECYCLING Ecobrick & +

The Wayuu communities do not have a garbage collection system. Therefore, we provide support so they can separate trash from recyclable materials and help them reuse the latter to create new products, such as an eco-friendly brick, which has been used in the construction of new buildings in the communities.

The project's origins were twofold. First, the need to do something with the waste produced by the community, as they had no clear idea of ​​how to deal with it. And second, to use the children's free time in enjoyable and productive activities.

From these causes and the desire to protect the environment, the Ecobrick & + activity was born. It consisted of using plastic bottles as containers for other recyclable materials, simulating the function of common bricks. The task was for the children to identify the objects they could use to refill the bottles and learn what can and cannot be recycled.

Once the ecobricks were manufactured, we continued with the process of building a park bench for use by the entire community. This work was complemented by awareness-raising workshops on the importance of recycling and workshops on waste management methodologies.

Although the activity was successful, it has not been repeated. Since the idea came from a volunteer, we intend to repeat this beautiful work with new volunteers who are willing to challenge the Wayuu community and show them that even waste can be useful if they have a desire for change.

We wanted to provide the community with a broad learning experience where both adults and children can embrace the idea of ​​recycling as a means of change, and how creativity can help improve their lives. We teach children how to use available resources to contribute to their community and, more importantly, they will begin to build their future in a sustainable environment.