After collecting and cleaning the used containers, Kakao Makers plans to extract plastic materials that will be repurposed into everyday goods like clocks, children’s desks and other items for sale. (Image: CJ CheilJedang)
SEOUL, Apr. 22 (Korea Bizwire) –Kakao’s impact commerce platform Kakao Makers has partnered with food giant CJ CheilJedang to launch an upcycling initiative that will transform discarded containers from the company’s popular instant rice products into new merchandise.
Timed to coincide with Earth Day on April 22, the “Instant Rice Container Reborn Project” seeks to raise awareness about recycling the packaging while giving consumers an easy way to participate in environmental protection.
Until May 1, Kakao Makers will accept submissions from 5,000 people who can send in 30 or more used instant rice containers through the company’s website. Selected participants will receive coupons worth 3,000 won to spend on the platform as well as complimentary eco-friendly rice packages from CJ, which utilize containers producing less carbon emissions.
After collecting and cleaning the used containers, Kakao Makers plans to extract plastic materials that will be repurposed into everyday goods like clocks, children’s desks and other items for sale. All proceeds will be donated to support underprivileged children.
“By collaborating with CJ CheilJedang, which has long striven to recycle its rice containers, we aim to raise awareness that these packages needn’t go to waste,” said Jeon Seong-chan from Kakao Makers. “Going forward, we’ll continue providing accessible opportunities for people to join the circular economy using common household items.”
The latest collaboration marks the eighth installment of Kakao Makers’ broader “Reborn Project” initiative launched in 2022 to tackle resource circulation challenges. Previous editions upcycled old T-shirts, sweaters, denim, medical packaging and coffee capsules into new merchandise.
To date, over 51,000 people have participated in repurposing nearly 4.42 million items through the project as part of Kakao’s push to promote sustainable product life cycles.
“On a day meant to celebrate our planet’s well-being, we’re thrilled to offer an intuitive way for consumers to reduce waste while supporting underserved youth,” Jeon said of the latest Earth Day partnership.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
