#Japan #Miyazaki #Precious Plastic #MINI #Upcycling Workshop

Turning the Ordinary into Extraordinary: The Upcycling Workshop

On November 2, 2025, an engaging upcycling workshop was conducted by NON-PROFIT organization, Precious Plastic Karatsu, at the MINI Miyazaki showroom. This event, part of the 'BIG LOVE PROJECT - Circular Economy Workshop,' aimed to transform discarded plastic bottle caps into stylish 'MINI logo keychains.'

Approximately 40 attendees, including families and MINI owners, participated in this event, immersing themselves in a hands-on experience that highlighted the significance of sustainability and the joy of crafting.

Utilizing a specialized injection molding machine provided by Precious Plastic, participants transformed the collected bottle caps into unique keychains. The workshop enabled individuals to physically engage in the process of recycling by learning to 'melt, mold, and extract,' giving everyone a chance to appreciate the value of reimagining waste materials.

This innovative approach resonates with MINI's philosophy of creating enjoyable learning experiences about environmental sustainability, welcoming participants of all ages. It became a platform not just for creating a product, but also for fostering conversations around the environmental impact of plastic waste.

Bridging Ideas with Actions: The 'BIG LOVE ACTION'

MINI’s commitment to the 'BIG LOVE ACTION powered by MINI' initiative emphasizes nurturing small ideas and empowering everyone to contribute to a better future. The workshop at MIYAZAKI embodied this principle, effectively giving discarded plastics a new purpose and nurturing the concept of circular economy within the community.

The event fostered connections across generations, showcasing how collective action can pave the way toward a sustainable future through creativity and collaboration.

A Day of Creativity and Community Engagement

The day was marked by enthusiasm as families and MINI enthusiasts came together to create the MINI logo keychains, which were a resounding success. The attendees shared their craft moments, capturing the joy of creation in photos that would celebrate their contributions to the upcycling movement.

Even high school graduates from Karatsu Minami participated in the event, underscoring the warmth and connections established through shared efforts. It is this collaboration that embodies the essence of community-driven projects.

Inspired by the day’s experiences, the workshop also featured the creation of upcycled Christmas ornaments, continuing to engage participants in meaningful craftsmanship. These festive items were designed using the same recycled bottle caps, with attendees penning their wishes on hearts made from the materials.

A Future of Sustainable Workshops

Moreover, MINI Miyazaki plans to keep the spirit of creativity alive by providing participants the opportunity to create Christmas ornaments at the showroom, ensuring that the joy of upcycling continues for everyone in the community. This initiative not only adds seasonal cheer but also opens the door for more people to experience the benefits of upcycling.

Closing Thoughts from Precious Plastic Karatsu

A representative from Precious Plastic Karatsu shared, “MINI’s spirit of 'BIG LOVE' aligns perfectly with our ongoing community resource recycling activities. Both emphasize how small actions can transform the future. We are thrilled that so many diverse generations engaged in hands-on activities, viewing recycling as a personal endeavor, and we hope this wave of awareness spreads nationwide.”

About Precious Plastic Karatsu

Precious Plastic Karatsu operates as a hub for upcycling, leveraging the Dutch open-source circular system to repurpose plastic waste collected within Karatsu City into useful items like coasters and artworks. Through workshops and collaborations with educational institutions and businesses, they create enjoyable spaces for citizens and children to experience a circular society. Their initiatives have gained prominence, highlighted at the upcoming Osaka Kansai Expo, demonstrating their leadership in Japan’s upcycling movement.

For more information, visit Precious Plastic Karatsu.

Organizational Overview

NPO Precious Plastic Karatsu

• - Location: 3-7-22 Higashi Karatsu, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
• - Representative: Nozomi Hamaguchi
• - Services: Resource recycling initiatives, upcycling education, community collaboration projects, and nature-oriented site management
• - Official Website: Precious Plastic Karatsu
• - Instagram: @preciousplastic_karatsu