Free fabric as Kawasaki City calls for upcycling creators

Kawasaki City is embarking on a project to repurpose promotional materials, including banners displayed at major city stations during the 100th-anniversary celebrations. The city is calling for creative ideas to transform these materials into products or event components, with the fabric distributed free of charge.

This city-wide project wants to raise awareness and interest in the Sustainable Development Goals among its residents. Businesses and organizations interested in developing and selling products or hosting events using the tarpaulin fabric from these banners are encouraged to participate. The fabric will be provided at no cost, allowing participants to freely create, sell, or share their designs.

The application period for participation runs from February 25 to March 16. The materials being repurposed include promotional displays from the city’s anniversary events, primarily made of durable tarpaulin fabric, a polyester-based material coated with synthetic resin. Commonly used for making bags and other upcycled goods, this fabric ensures longevity and adaptability.

The quantity of fabric distributed will be determined based on the number of applicants and the nature of their proposals. The resale or redistribution of the raw fabric is prohibited, and all participants must report their upcycling efforts, which the city will share on social media. Collection of materials will take place at Kawasaki City Hall, with applicants responsible for transportation and cleaning.

In partnership with PRODUCT BASE SKLO (SKLO Inc.), a leather goods manufacturer based in Kawasaki, the project will also involve cutting the tarpaulin fabric into various decorative shapes like stars and hearts. These ornaments will be distributed to all 58 Children’s Cultural Centers across the city, where children can engage with them in free play or incorporate them into organized activities.