UP Moves Toward Sustainability: Transforming Plastic Bottle Caps into Hangers to Reduce Waste and Protect the Environment

CESM has collaborated with various university departments, especially student dormitories, through the "Collect Bottle Caps, Exchange for Hangers" campaign. This initiative fosters environmental awareness among students and staff while encouraging waste separation and reduction efforts.

Looking ahead, CESM plans to expand its partnerships with local administrative organizations and private sectors to make these products more accessible to the community. This expansion could generate employment and income for local residents while promoting sustainable resource utilization.

- Those interested in contributing to the project can send plastic bottle caps to:Recipient: Mr. Satit Srichan

Address: Center of Environment and Sustainable Management, University of Phayao19 Moo 2, Mae Ka Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phayao Province 56000

Phone: 0 5446 6666 ext. 1080

Assistant Professor Suwit Panyawong, Vice President for Environment and Landscape at the University of Phayao, stated:

"The Center of Environment and Sustainable Management is committed to driving the Green University policy by developing 100% recycled plastic bottle cap hangers. This initiative not only helps reduce waste but also supports efficient waste management. Furthermore, it can be extended to produce other items, such as document folders or commemorative medals for sporting events."

The production process for these plastic bottle cap hangers is cost-effective, making them easily accessible for communities and educational institutions. Each hanger is made from 85 bottle caps. Furthermore, CESM is exploring potential commercialization opportunities, such as selling them through souvenir shops, in order to raise public awareness about environmental conservation.

In terms of advocacy and collaboration, CESM has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with various entities, including the University of Phayao Chiang Rai Campus and student dormitories. The program encourages students to collect plastic bottle caps in exchange for hangers (85 caps per hanger), thereby reducing dormitory waste and fostering environmental consciousness. Future plans include expanding partnerships with local governments and communities within the province to establish a sustainable resource management framework.

100% Recycled Plastic Bottle Cap Hangers: A Sustainable Innovation

These innovative hangers are made entirely from plastic bottle caps, reducing the demand for new plastic. They are durable, strong, and available in various colors, depending on the bottle caps used. The production process involves sorting, cleaning, shredding, and melting the plastic to mold the hangers, representing an eco-friendly recycling solution that turns waste into functional products.

Benefits of Recycled Plastic Bottle Cap Hangers:

• Eco-friendly: Reduces plastic waste and minimizes the use of new materials.
• Cost-effective: Low production costs make them widely accessible.
• Upcycling waste: Transforms discarded plastic into practical, reusable items.

The University of Phayao is committed to creating innovative solutions that benefit both communities and the environment. We welcome collaboration from all sectors in promoting a more sustainable and environmentally conscious society.