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Give a Second Life to Old Marketing Materials

Millions of tons of waste from advertising and marketing materials are discarded each year, contributing to an environmental crisis at the global level. Rather than discarding old advertising and promotional materials in landfills, consider expanding their life cycle by transforming them into unique, functional and well-crafted promotional products. Through the process of upcycling, formerly used materials can be repurposed to create environmentally-friendly products. Simply by cutting and sewing discarded materials such as the vinyl used for a billboard, advertisements can be given a second life.


Benefits of Upcycling

Many companies are already committed to recycling whenever possible. However, adding upcycling to the list of eco-friendly company initiatives is paramount. While both processes reduce the number of materials that end up in landfills, upcycling repurposes materials rather than breaking them down into their raw state. This highly efficient process, reduces the amount of water, energy, and raw materials needed to manufacture a product since materials are reused rather than extracted. When compared to traditional production, upcycling reduces the amount of CO2 entering our atmosphere. According to EarthHero, “for every ton of tossed textiles that get upcycled, 20 tons of CO2 is prevented from entering the atmosphere.” Additionally, upcycling can also save you time and money. Rather than purchasing material to produce new products, upcycling creatively repurposes previously used material.



What Can Be Upcycled?

If you can cut and sew it, you can probably upcycle it. Typical sources include:

  • Billboards

  • Banners

  • Tablecloths

  • Signage

  • Backdrops

  • Apparel

  • Upholstery

For example, billboards are a prime upcycling source due to the materials' durability. Designed to withstand winds, rain and other types of inclement weather, the vinyl from billboards creates sturdy, water-resistant upcycled products. With no two items being the exact same, these upcycled products offer a sustainable and unique approach to promotional product creation. Feasible products include zippered gym bags, laptop sleeves, pennants and key fobs.



Customization Possibilities

Adding your branding to upcycled items is easy. Your message can be directly imprinted on the material through digital print or screen printing. For a more suitable look, add a seam label or sewn-on patch. Product hardware such as zippers, handles, snaps, buckles and keyrings can also be customized. Don’t forget to showcase the unique story behind the product’s creation. We can help communicate that story with a hangtag or bellyband that explains the origin of the upcycled material.


Show your brand’s commitment to sustainability by repurposing marketing materials and giving them new life. Promo Assets’ team of product experts is here to guide you through the upcycling process and help you create a one-of-a-kind statement piece. Email projects@promoassets.com to get started or learn more.


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