#design #product #2022/ ![[packaging + molde SDcachalote.23788258.jpg]] as part of givaware's *closing the loop on plastic* project, a technology to valorise mixed plastics was proposed. the initiative resulted from a collaboration with sociedade ponto verde, which transformed mixed plastics from urban selective collection into value-added products for children. mixed plastics are a group of plastics whose characteristics mean they cannot be recycled. the management of the mixed plastic packaging waste stream is considered downcycling since the recovery of material for reincorporation into a new product only after maintaining the added value of the initial application. in the european union, [260 million](https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/McKinsey/Industries/Chemicals/Our%20Insights/How%20plastics%20waste%20recycling%20could%20transform%20the%20chemical%20industry/How-plastics-waste-recycling-could-transform.pdf) tonnes are produced each year in the eu, with only 12 % of plastic is recycled. the management of the mixed plastic packaging waste stream is considered downcycling, since the recovery of a material for reincorporation into a new product occurs without maintaining the added value of the initial application. this project used a process of research into the context of children's play. a participatory research method which included professionals from sociedade ponto verde and potential users. from a functional point of view, the toy is designed to provide children with a moment to learn and share the principles of sustainability and ecology. essentially, the toy acts as a mould that allows children to shape pre-defined figures. the playful concept aims to educate children about the circular economy, using the product's paper packaging as the raw material for the toy. integrating packaging into the play introduces the concept of recycling and aims to reduce packaging disposal by turning it into toys or pieces of children's art. in this way, through paper pulp, children are stimulated creatively and have the freedom to create and personalise their own toys. ![[cenário_escola.jpg]] the toy went through a testing phase where it was tested in a real context in a game that brought children and their parents together. you can see it on the [[circular design workshop]]. one of the main objectives in designing this toy was to ensure that it didn't wear out quickly during use, thus extending its useful life. the first product line launched was dedicated to the animals of portugal, further reinforcing the educational nature of the product. ![[lince_brinquedo.png]]