Natural alternatives to plastic discovered in Lebanon

Terrazzo made from plastic waste

In Lebanon, Jean-Paul Design became aware of the arrival of the “shisha tip” waste and wanted to act.

The objects he creates are inspired by the trendy ‘terrazzo’ style. Because Jean-Paul has a secret project: to show the Lebanese that waste, if given a second life, can decorate an interior!

Handbags made from knitted old plastic bags

In the Syrian refugee camps in Bekaa Valley, north of Lebanon, women have joined forces to give plastic bags a second life.

They cut up the bags to make “plarn” or “plastic yarn”, a spool of plastic thread. They use this plastic yarn to knit or crochet colourful handbags, which they sell in the souk.

As time goes by, their collections are becoming more and more successful, enabling them to make a living from their activity.

Toothbrushes that grow on the ground

In Lebanon, as in many countries in the Middle East and Asia, some inhabitants use the siwak: a small fibrous stick that replaces plastic toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste.

The siwak is the root of the Salvadora Persica shrub, which grows in arid areas and tolerates high temperatures and drought very well.

The perfect reusable bag

Malak Al-Terkawi founded Brio Bags, a start-up that makes reusable bags from natural materials.

The bags are eco-designed to use as little material as possible, and tailored to a specific use, such as this compartmentalised bag for separating fruit and vegetables, with a light bag for weighing.

According to Malak, it is consumer habits that need to be changed, and retailers must offer solutions. That is why she works hand in hand with them.