KOSTER
ABSTRACT
Repurposing Glacier Covers is an exploratory concept investigating how used glacier protection covers could be integrated into a closed-loop system instead of being discarded. These tear-resistant, lightweight, and fully recyclable materials are replaced every five years, creating waste despite their quality. The idea proposes up-cycling them into functional products such as bags or accessories before re-entering recycling streams, extending their lifespan and raising consumer awareness of circular design.
PROCESS
Situation
Glacier protection covers are replaced regularly and discarded, despite being recyclable and durable. The challenge is to give them a second life before recycling.
Decisions
• Chose to focus on upcycling into functional products instead of only recycling, to extend material lifespan.
• Highlighted the unique weathered aesthetic of the material to add storytelling and consumer awareness value.
My Role
• Researched material properties and existing recycling practices.
• Explored potential product applications (bags, accessories, educational prototypes).
• Mapped a possible closed-loop process from collection to reintegration into recycling streams.
Learnings
• Consumer education is key – visible storytelling (e.g., showing the material’s alpine history) increases perceived value.
• Local production reduces environmental impact, but feasibility depends on cost and logistics.
• Designing for circularity requires planning the end-of-life stage already in the concept phase.
RESEARCH
Methods:
• Literature Review • Material Property Analysis • Circular Economy Case Studies
RESEARCH INSIGHTS
Glacier covers are made from thermoplastic polypropylene (PP) – strong, weather-resistant, and 100% recyclable.
Existing waste management does not integrate them into circular loops.
Showing tangible examples of material transformation increases public understanding of circular systems.
CONCEPT
Circular Approach
Upcycling First: Used covers are transformed into bags, accessories, or educational installations, extending their life before recycling.
Closed-Loop Design: Products are designed for easy disassembly to ensure reintegration into recycling streams.
Local Processing: Collection and production occur locally to reduce transport emissions and reinforce sustainability storytelling.
OUTCOME
The project proposes a circular material flow where glacier covers move from alpine regions to local workshops, becoming functional products before being recycled. This approach extends the material’s lifecycle, reduces waste, and uses the weathered, nature-marked texture to create products with strong storytelling and emotional value.
EFFECT
For consumers:
Raises awareness of circular design by showing how industrial materials can gain a meaningful second life.
For businesses:
Demonstrates how storytelling and circular principles can increase product value and align with sustainability goals.
For the planet:
Reduces waste, keeps high-performance materials in use longer, and lowers emissions through local processing.
Open Question:
How can small-scale upcycling initiatives be financially viable while keeping production local and sustainable?