How Phuket’s ocean waste will be transformed into stylish clothing and accessories

Phuket has announced that its ocean waste will be collected and transformed into stylish clothing and accessories by Ecoalf, a fashion and lifestyle brand that only uses recycled materials. The Thai island is taking part in the “Upcycling the Oceans” initiative to preserve its stunning coastlines for the benefit of islanders and visitors of the future.

The Phuket Hotels Association is partnering with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ecoalf and resources giant PTT to launch the campaign on 27 and 28 January. They will work with local fisherman, divers and recycling centres to collect waste and litter from Patong Beach. The materials recovered, including plastics, will be separated and reusable items will be gathered for upcycling.

Ecoalf began the “Upcycling the Oceans” initiative in September 2015 in the Mediterranean coast of Levante, Spain, and it is now replicating the project in Thailand. It is initially taking place in Phuket, Koh Samet, Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. Ecoalf will sell the items made from the recycling initiative at boutique stores located in PHA member hotels across Phuket.

“Phuket’s beauty and appeal is based upon the purity of its coastal landscapes,” said Anthony Lark, president of the PHA. “While we cannot always control what washes up on our shores, we can take steps to tackle the waste and even turn it into something beautiful. We look forward to working with our partners on the Upcycling the Oceans initiative and creating treasure out of trash.”

For further information on Ecoalf, see here.