Combining design and material science to develop made in Italy toys from organic waste through a bioeconomy approach

Today marks the kick off of WasToy, the Research Project of Relevant National Interest (PRIN 2022) that focuses on combining circular bio-economy practices with educational goals. The aim of the project is to create sustainable, circular toys from upcycled materials, introducing children to the principles of sustainability and the circular economy.

Project goals and key steps:

• Utilize organic waste from the food and agricultural supply chain to produce bio-based materials, contributing to sustainable development and effective waste management.
• Leed an interdisciplinary team combining design, chemistry and business skills to translate the potential properties of waste into innovative materials for toy production.
• Conduct a mapping activity of the Italian territory to establish links between organic waste and local food/agricultural supply chains, promoting industrial symbiosis scenarios.
• Design circular toys with sensory features and thematic games to educate children about the food supply chain, the circular economy and the importance of materials derived from waste.
• Instilling a culture of sustainability in future generations, with a particular focus on Made in Italy products.
• Demonstrate the potential of upcycling waste into valuable resources and sustainable toys, advocating a more environmentally conscious approach to the toy industry.

Photo credits: Sofia Duarte, 2020