The new range of PTWC upcycled bags – each completely unique – was produced by innovative Cape Town sustainable start-up OpenSource Circular (OSC), which employs local artisans to make each bag from scratch by hand. OSC specialises in manufacturing high-quality, consumer goods and merchandise from commercial waste materials for brands, schools, events and businesses.
OSC espouses the main tenets of the ‘circular economy’, which is a sustainable production model that minimises waste by keeping products and materials in continuous use. The circular economy promotes reuse, repair and recycling, moving away from the traditional linear system of produce-consume-dispose.
It is an ethos that aligns with the values of an environmental not-for-profit such as PTWC. All revenues from the new range go towards supporting the work of the organisation in protecting the fragile ecosystems and marginalised communities of the West Coast from the ravages of unscrupulous mining in the region.
“We get in contact with companies that produce waste materials,” says OSC Co-Managing Director Oliver Kabongo. “We let them know that these can be turned into high-quality consumer goods, instead of ending up in a landfill. We mainly source Bedouin stretch tent material, advertising banners and yacht sails.”
While this might seem the perfect solution for a manufacturing company looking for affordable and readily available eco-friendly resources, it does come with certain challenges. Cutting these materials is often difficult due to their strength and thickness, and as they are pre-used they sometimes require careful cleaning.
“This makes the process slower than in regular manufacturing,” says Oliver. “The same goes with sewing on our machines, our materials require heavy-duty machinery and expert craftsmanship to make these kinds of products.”
“Keeping in mind the fabrication being used and how it works under a machine when sewing up is pretty important,” adds designer Dominique Le Roux. “Certain fabrications are better used in sections of bags that need to be sturdier, whereas others can be used purely as a design feature.”
Careful thought went into considering the different uses of the bags and what design details would be needed for ease and comfort. “Where pockets should go and what items you’d pack with you was super important,” says Dominique. “But then also having an urban cool element to the design was key. You want the bag to be as versatile as possible, tapping into everyday wear, as well as using it for an adventure, and knowing it will last.”
The result is worth the additional effort. Apart from their sustainability, every bag is handmade locally. Each one is full of character – unique from the inside to the outside, with its own story to tell.
“The high-quality materials we have used make them durable and highly water resistant. We also offer to repair them should there be any damages,” adds Oliver. “All companies should take the sustainable route, so that together we get to make a bigger and more positive impact on the environment.”
Besides their quirky cache and eco-friendly origins, the upside for those who purchase one of these bags is that in doing so you make a positive impact on the environment, show your support for PTWC and to encourage other businesses to create circular economy products.
“PTWC is proud to offer this new range of upcycled bags to our supporters,” says MD Mike Schlebach. “These bags are the perfect example of the kind of eco-friendly industries that we champion as an economic alternative to mining on the West Coast and that we hope to promote as a permanent and sustainable source of employment in the region.”
PTWC is also open to collaborating with other like-minded businesses in similar co-branding opportunities.
Available in a range of bright colours and different materials, the new range of PTWC upcycled bags includes a square and round duffel bag, a crossbody satchel, tote bags, a regular and roll top backpack, travel kits, a waist bag (bumbag) and laptop carriers.
Each bag utilises the highest quality supplementary trims such as zips, buckles, threads and webbings, designed to endure the elements – but also comes with a lifetime warranty, which means you can bring them in for repair for as long as it takes!
All proceeds raised from the sale of these products go towards PTWC. Explore the full range and join us in making a positive impact on the West Coast.
