Repurpose Schoolbag

This case study is an example of a project that at its core, has the following design values:

Small & Local Economies, Inventiveness, Recuse & Recycling, Community and Education

Design Problems:

1. Education (better facility/resources for children from underprivileged communities)
2. Environment, especially Plastic pollution
3. Energy (access to a light source)
4. Employment for the community

How these problems are tackled?

1. Providing a suitable schoolbag to children (durable, waterproof, have reflective stripes)
2. Material used: Plastic Bags (20 per bag)
3. The bag includes a solar powered lamp
4. The company employs people from the community

Other interesting aspects:

1. Giving Partners: Other companies can sponsor a particular school
2. Purpose Textile Bins in strategic places (local schools, churches, and businesses): the community can support the company
3. Potential strategies that the company is considering: developing other “fashion” products to fund the schoolbags

Rethaka (Pty) Ltd: A for-profit social enterprise based in South Africa.