This time, we set out on a path that combines a deep dedication to environmental responsibility with the fragrant pleasures of our preferred morning beverage. In a world where every action counts, we are excited to share an environmentally responsible project: the conversion of coffee grounds into opulent soaps through a process of recycling and repurposing.
In this project, we investigated the complex procedure for gathering coffee grounds wastes from local coffee shops in Shanghai; drying the coffee grounds, and turning coffee grounds into energizing and fragrant soaps. Our mission is a declaration of our dedication to promoting a circular economy, where waste is seen as a resource ready to be reborn, and goes beyond the production of these distinctive items.
The first main section of the project was the collection of coffee grounds. During the first week of September, members of the Preserver and volunteers visited various coffee shops in Shanghai, including Seasaw, Manner, Starbucks, etc. to gather the coffee grounds that would otherwise be thrown away. It was noticeable that the participants of the collection activity all traveled in environmentally friendly ways, such as walking, bicycling, or taking the subway. We also used recyclable containers to store the collected coffee grounds.
The next week, we gathered together again for the second main section—the conversion of coffee grounds from waste to useful soaps. We first melted the Soap Base—a solid, soap-making material that acts as the foundation for your soap. We melted until it became a smooth, liquid consistency. Once the soap base is melted, the next step is to incorporate the coffee grounds as a gentle exfoliant, providing a natural and invigorating scrub. Essential oils, chosen for their aromatic qualities, are then added to enhance the overall sensory experience of the soap. When the mixtures were ready, we poured them into different molds, the various shapes and sizes of which allowed for creative and personalized designs. We made them into cute shapes like cat claws and coffee beans. The soap is then left to cool and solidify in the molds. We repeated the above procedures until all the soap base was used up. In total, we successfully made around 50 soaps.
The project is not just about reinventing waste; it is also a celebration of sustainability and a tribute to how closely our daily routines and the health of the world are related.