Nicola and I were given a grant earlier in the year. We have completed our action of reducing students use of plastic single-use items. We ran an expo last semester in the Rakaia Centre outside the library where there were also several other classmates trying to make a change and create a more sustainable way of living for Ara students.
Our expo ran over two days and we managed to give away 200 DIY beeswax wrap kits to staff and students. Each beeswax wrap kit had all of the materials that are needed to allow people to make the wrap at home themselves. The grant allowed us to supply these items (cotton fabric, beeswax and pine resin). Alongside these kits we had the instructions that we tested ourselves and put together. We had two sets of instructions to ensure everyone would be able to make them at home. For example, the iron method (we didn’t think all students would own an iron) and the double boiler method.
We also tested and made a set of instructions for other DIY alternatives to everyday items that people could take away with them. At the expo we also had three prize packs to give away. Each pack had DIY sustainable alternatives to everyday items that normally would contain plastic. For example, fruit and veggie bags, deodorant, body butter, spray and wipe and a couple of other items. With these, we also packed in instructions of how you can make them yourselves at home.
Nicola and I would like to thank you and the Ara Foundation for allowing us to have the opportunity to make change throughout Ara. It was greatly appreciated!