At REFISHED, we are convinced that style, sustainability and fairness are not a contradiction in terms! We produce bags and accessories that bring joy without harming sewers and nature.
Sustainability and fairness are the core values of our fair fashion brand REFISHED. By upcycling, we try to keep our environmental footprint as small as possible and give a new life to materials that would have ended up in the rubbish bin after a single use. But what is upcycling anyway? And how does it differ from recycling and downcycling?
Upcycling vs. Recycling vs. Downcycling – the ultimate comparison
Recycling 101
Waste material is broken down into its original raw materials using a great deal of energy in order to be used for the manufacture of new products. The most famous example of this are PET bottles. The focus is on conserving resources and reducing waste. However, recycling can reduce the value of the material as it is often returned to a standard value that is less appealing than the original product. In addition, breaking it down into raw materials produces high emissions. Did you know that cardboard is the most recycled material at 61.92%?
Did you know that cardboard is the most recycled material at 61.92%?
What is downcycling?
Downcycling is the process of converting a material into a less valuable product. For example, a high quality fabric is made into a less robust or functional fabric. Whilst it also helps to reduce waste, it often reduces the lifespan and value of the original material. This is the case, for example, when an old T-shirt is turned into a wash cloth.
Upcycling: The most sustainable way of recycling
The radical opposite of downcycling is upcycling: here, waste material is used and transformed into a new, high-quality product. In contrast to other methods, the original material is retained, but is processed in such a way that it has a higher value in the end. In contrast to recycling, it is therefore a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly method.Upcycling is also becoming increasingly popular on social media.
The most viewed video on this topic even has 66 million views!
Upcycling at REFISHED
In our case, for example, we use old fish food sacks, cement bags or discarded advertising material such as flags and tarps to make durable and unique bags. Upcycling is not only sustainable, but also promotes the creation of unique items that benefit the environment at the same time. Our upcycling process takes place in a social workshop in Cambodia, where mainly people with physical disabilities work and are paid fairly for their labour.
By upcycling fish food bags, we not only support the environment, but also help to empower landmine victims in Cambodia by offering them work in our fair and protected workshop and thus a good income. Customers can get to know our seamstresses better on our website, which leads to more transparent production. In this way, we have created an approach that is as fair as possible to people and nature.
All three approaches aim to avoid waste and extend the lifespan of products. We have opted for upcycling in order to design not only sustainable bags, but also unique items. By upcycling, we contribute to a more sustainable world and offer our customers unique, environmentally friendly products that are made with love and dedication.
The more customers opt for this type of sustainable and fair consumption, the more other brands will adapt to this demand. Be part of the change! At REFISHED you will find a wide range of colourful and sustainable bags that are perfect for treating yourself and giving as gifts.
Browse through our collection!
These are our sources:
https://www.missoma.com/blogs/the-chain/upcycling-recycling-statistics (Stand 17.03.2025)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGqfWvm4TnQ (Stand 17.03.2025)