Environmental conservation and plastic waste reduction in Frioul
ISLANDS
Frioul Islands, (France)
THEMATICS
Environmental conservation and plastic waste reduction.
PARTNERS
Designer Antoine Boudin, Port-Cros National Park, and local business owners on Porquerolles, Port-Cros, Levant, and Frioul Islands.
Initiative
Developing and distributing cutleries made of Canne de Provence as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic utensils in shops on various islands committed to plastic waste reduction.
Context:
The initiative was established out of the need to address the environmental impact of single-use plastics, particularly on small islands like Porquerolles, Port-Cros, Levant, Frioul islands, and Kerkennah. Traditional alternatives to plastic utensils were found to be unsustainable, which prompted SMILO to explore other local solutions.
Approach
Conducted initial surveys to understand the plastic use and alternatives on the islands. Collaborated with business owners and the Islands Committee, to identify opportunities for improvement. Partnered with designer Antoine Boudin, leveraging his expertise with local reeds used in the production of wind instrument components. Conducted research and development to create prototypes of cutleries from reeds, ensuring usability and durability. Produced and distributed 35,000 reed-made items to 25 shopkeepers on the islands. Implemented a comprehensive communication campaign to raise awareness among visitors and the public in partnership with Port-Cros National Park. Replicated the initiative on the Frioul islands and in Kerkennah, Tunisia, using locally available biomaterials.
Objectives
- To reduce carbon emissions associated with transporting plastic utensils to the islands.
- To provide a washable and reusable alternative to single-use plastic utensils.
- Utilize natural, biodegradable, and local materials for cutlery production.
- Support a circular economy by upcycling waste from the reeds industry.
- Promote sustainable practices among local businesses and visitors.
Impact areas
Increased awareness of plastic pollution issues among visitors and the public. Empowerment of local communities through involvement in sustainable initiatives. Enhancement of the visitor experience with eco-friendly alternatives.
Reduction in plastic waste and associated pollution on the islands. Decreased carbon emissions due to local production and distribution of cutleries.
Creation of new market opportunities for local designers and producers. Cost savings for businesses by reducing reliance on single-use plastics. Potential for expansion of sustainable practices to other industries and regions.
