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The growing concern for sustainability has driven the development of innovative approaches to rethink the use and management of waste and discarded materials. This academic project had as its central objective the critical examination of the excessive use of plastic pots in the horticulture, floriculture, and gardening industries, encouraging the exploration of strategies capable of mitigating environmental impacts through the reintegration of waste from different productive contexts.
In this sense, the research focused on developing practical solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact, acknowledging the urgency of establishing sustainable alternatives that respond to contemporary demands for more responsible practices aligned with circular economy principles.
The reuse of waste originating from floriculture, restoration processes, and carpentry activities constituted the innovative core of this project, based on the use of organic material residues as raw material for the development of new containers for plant cultivation. This approach aims to promote circular economy principles and sustainability by reducing plastic use and transforming waste into functional, utilitarian objects with added environmental value.
sawdust
wood waste
sunflower stems
floriculture waste
eggshells
restaurant waste
Initially, natural fibers discarded by a floriculture business, waste from restoration processes, and residues from carpentry were collected, separated, and cataloged. These materials were then dried and subsequently processed to initiate the experimental trials.
The tests and experiments were carried out during the second phase of the research, aiming to identify the most suitable combinations of materials and manufacturing processes capable of resulting in functional, durable pots suitable for plant cultivation. Accordingly, the experiments were conducted in a specific manner and adapted to each type of residue, ensuring structural resistance and effective water drainage, which are essential for healthy plant development and growth.
In the third phase of the research, molding, sewing, and folding processes were applied to the biomaterials in order to evaluate their behavior and production feasibility, as well as to simulate the proposed manufacturing methods for plant pots.
In summary, the project focused on reducing the use of plastic pots and, through several experimental approaches, presented alternative pots developed from the reuse of waste materials. The prototypes were produced using processes such as mold fabrication, industrial sewing, and folding techniques, resulting in manufacturing methods adaptable to market requirements.
The results demonstrated efficient and practical solutions for plant growth. Furthermore, the project shows strong potential for large-scale production, establishing itself as a viable and promising foundation for future developments.
In practice, the application of the developed pots proved to be effective, providing a suitable environment for the healthy growth of plants. In this context, the reuse of waste not only contributed to mitigating the environmental impacts associated with conventional plastic pots, but also fostered awareness of the importance of circular economy principles.
Nevertheless, considering the continuous evolution of sustainable practices, it is essential to anticipate future adjustments and innovations within the project. Exploring new recyclable materials, improving production methods, and extending the research to different contexts and scales may significantly enhance the positive impact of the proposal, ensuring its ongoing relevance and effectiveness in a constantly changing global scenario.
Thus, this work not only highlights the importance of concrete solutions for reducing plastic use, but also serves as an invitation for continuous development toward more responsible, sustainable practices aligned with contemporary environmental challenges.
Author: Adônis Evangelista
Supervisor: Lígia Lopes
Institution: University of Porto
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