Creative Upcycling through Children's Eyes Inspiring a Culture of Recycling in Qeshm

The fifth edition of “From Waste to Wonder" competition was organised by the management of Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark to promote a culture of recycling while encouraging creativity among children and adolescents.

Published on : Aug 2, 2025

According to Qeshm Free Zone Media Centre, Dr Ebrahim Rostam Gurani, Director of Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark, said the educational and cultural initiative was held to coincide with International Plastic Bag Free Day, to raise public awareness, particularly among younger generations, of the importance of waste reduction and the creative reuse of discarded materials.

He added that this year's competition brought together 37 children and adolescents, ranging from preschool to secondary school level, from the western villages of Qeshm Island, including Salakh, Kovei and Kousheh, as well as Qeshm City.

According to Dr Gurani, participants transformed discarded materials into a wide variety of creative works, including flowerpots, candleholders, model houses, traditional games, baskets, picture frames and other handcrafted creations.

Highlighting the important role of such initiatives in enhancing environmental literacy and nurturing the artistic and creative skills of younger generations, the Director noted that Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark, as a member of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, regards the promotion of environmental stewardship as an integral part of its mission.

A highlight of the competition was the special recognition awarded to one of the participating art groups, led by Ms Mahani Salehi, for its outstanding and innovative creations.