Women and men drive the circular economy with recycled airplane leather

A group of entrepreneurial individuals successfully completed the Repurpose with Purpose program by Southwest Airlines, in partnership with CATIE, demonstrating that sustainability and innovation can generate benefits

Written by Karla Salazar Leiva, Edited by Estefanie Ramírez Brenes.

CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) celebrated on April 11th, the graduation of 10 participants from the Repurpose with Purpose program, a pioneering initiative by Southwest Airlines ✈️, in partnership with CATIE, which promotes the reuse of airplane seat leather 💺 in the production of leather goods.

This program not only represents a step 👣forward in the application of circular economy principles but also underscores CATIE's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically in ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns.

The graduates: 8 women and 2 men from the Turrialba community, have completed an intensive program of at least 40 sessions, where they learned advanced techniques in leather goods design and craftsmanship. CATIE's program coordinator, Eliécer Vargas, emphasized the significance of this achievement: "Today, we recognize and congratulate the efforts💪 of these entrepreneurs, who have not only expanded their skills but have also contributed to a greater cause, promoting environmental sustainability through reuse."

The program has also played a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship, especially among women and in creating employment in rural communities by offering a viable and ecological alternative for the use of discarded materials. In addition, to promoting education and the development of local capacities, Repurpose with Purpose is a testament to the power of collaboration between educational and corporate entities in the pursuit of sustainable solutions.

The graduation ceremony also included a special appreciation to Southwest Airlines, a key partner of CATIE in the development and success of the program. CATIE hopes to continue leading projects of this nature, which not only train skilled professionals but also promote practices that benefit the planet and its inhabitants.

Written by: Karla Salazar Leiva.

Edited by: Estefanie Ramirez Brenes.

More information:
Eliécer Vargas

Coordinator of the Repurpose with Purpose program

CATIE

evargas@catie.ac.cr