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How it works!

Step 1 - Collect Used Plastic - The first step in this whole process is simply collecting used plastic that would otherwise be going to the landfill or into a recycling bin (the contents of which may be going to China?).  Neighbours, local  schools and businesses endeavour to collect plastics too. We can up-cycle types 2 (HDPE) and 5 (Polypropylene).

Photo showing small bin to collect plastic, sitting at edge of driveway

Step 2 - Cleaning And Sorting - We really appreciate receiving plastics that have been thoroughly cleaned in advance, alternatively we set to work at the kitchen sink. Plastics are then sorted into the different types and colours.

Heaps of plastic bottles that have had labels removed and insides cleaned

Step 3 - Shredding - Once the plastic is all clean and sorted, the next step is to shred it. Plastic gets shredded down into tiny pieces that can be uniformly melted.  

 We aim to separate all shredded plastic by colour, however this can be challenging. Combining colours allows for personalisation and creativity when making soap dishes.

Step 4 - Melting and Injection - The shredded plastic is then heated to over 200 degrees C and melts. The liquid plastic is then injected into a mould, like this one for original soap dishes.  The liquid plastic quickly solidifies inside the mould and is solid when removed.

Step 5 - Finished Product - The end result = beautiful, decorative soap dishes from recycled plastic, giving the the plastic a new life, and thereby keeping it out of the environment.

If or when your soap dish is ready to be recycled, send it back to continue the cycle once again.

A MamaGaia soap dish leaning against a glass jar, filled with chipped plastic on a beach.