Spain, PET Lamp / Alvaro Catalán de Ocón, Plastic Upcycling & Weaving
PET (polyethylene terephthalate, a form of polyester) is one of the most popular consumer pack types worldwide. Its economical and durable properties make it perfect as a food or drink container, particularly as a water bottle. This is, however, a double-edged sword: its widespread use increases the risk of incorrect disposal and there are inadequate resources to manage appropriate collection and recycling. Focussing on PET plastic bottle waste, Álvaro Catalán de Ocón conceived his design ideas for the PET Lamp, giving pollutant waste a purposeful second life. Based in Madrid, Catalán de Ocón works with indigenous artisan partners all over the globe to merge traditional weaving practices with contemporary design and sustainability efforts through the repurposing of PET waste.
PET Lamps were featured in Selvedge Magazine Issue 101, Grow.
To further follow the story of PET Lamps, please find them on social media here.