During the seminar, paraplegic women affectees of 2005 earthquake in Pakistan-administered Kashmir unveiled their up-cycled plastic product, Gulf News reported. The women showcased the artificial jewelry made of recycled paper and plastic products which they are taught to make by Project Miracle.
Upcycled plastic items include the necklaces, earrings, and bracelets of the paper beads of different colours. Project Miracle is an income generating activity for victims of the 2005 earthquake, who were either handicapped or suffered severe wounds.
Paper Miracles Founder Elli Takagaki said that the plastic problem was soaring in Pakistan and 55 Billion plastic bags were reportedly being used in the country. She said the project was a unique initiative launched with an aim to create sustainable income-generation and skill-development opportunities for female earthquake survivors.
Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) representative Abid Qaiyum Sulehri said that plastic was not a problem, but its use was. He said the challenge for us is to adopt the practice of three R’s i.e. reduce, reuse and recycle.
The ceremony was held to celebrate the World Earth Day and was attended by those affected by the 2005 earthquake and their families, diplomats, UN officials and members of civil society who are campaigning for plastic-free Pakistan.
During the event, Hungary, Switzerland, Japan, and Poland ramp-walked with recycled plastic bag, gym bag, grocery tote bag, football bag to raise awareness on plastic waste recycling.
According to World Economic Forum, 90% of plastic polluting our oceans comes from just 10 rivers, including the Indus.